many people really do take trimeresurus and bothriechis bites pretty lightly, especially considering both can and have caused fatal bites.

I would definitely stay far away from t. purpureomaculatus if one was to go the trimeresurus route. They can get pretty large as far as tree vipers go, have a bad bite, and are very hot tempered. I would say copperhead would be your best bet. Since there is absolutely no reason you should be anywhere near their strike-range, and given the mild temperatment of most, the speed of the strike shouldn't be a problem unless you have your hand a foot in front of it's face. They are fast, but their strike-range isn't anywhere near as far as any of the tree vipers, which is something to keep in mind. I also like sidewinders and pygmy's, but nothing prepares you better for a first hot than a mentor.

good luck and use common sense, it goes farther than you think.

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