Reptile & Amphibian Forums

What is a good venomous starter speices that is mildly venomous not deadly?

I wouldn't deal with anything venomous until you know for sure you can not get struck by a very aggressive non-venomous snake, that way you can hone your skills before actually putting yourself in danger of anykind
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A.J.
1.0.0- Amel Motley Corn- Valentine (R.I.P 5/20/05)
0.1.0- Snow Corn- Artica
1.0.0- Normal Corn- Ember
1.0.0- Ball Python- G.T.

If by "starter" you are suggesting that you are an inexperienced herper in general, I would say that you are barking up the wrong tree.

If you are a VERy experienced reptile keeper, and have an interest in branching out into hots, I would suggest posting your question on the venomous forum, doing LOTS of research, and then making the smartest decision that you can.

Good luck. Be careful. Don't confuse "cool" with "stupid"...

Duffy

The fact that you are asking this question means you aren't ready to keep hots. Please don't take that as an insult. An experienced keeper knows when he/she is ready for hots.

If you want to learn how, try keeping a very aggressive fast moving colubrid or boid for a while. WC Amazon Treeboas or a WC Radiated Ratsnake would be good candidates. Don't ever handle it except with a hook and watch how you do.
- If you EVER take a bite from it, you aren't ready.
- If you EVER find yourself reaching into the cage to remove a water bowl, shed, etc. without adequate protection (snake removed, shield, etc), you aren't ready.
- If it EVER gets out, you aren't ready.

I think you get the idea. Learn from your harmless snakes. Start treating them like they are dangerous (no handling, reaching in, unlocked cages, etc). If you can be disciplined enough with them, you can start to think about getting a venomous snake.

If you really want something to test your skills and it has to be venomous, get a Mangrove Snake. They won't kill you, but they will challenge your snake manipulation skills!

This seems severe, but the thing that represents the greatest danger to hot handlers isn't necessarily inexperience - it is carelessness.

The last important thing to do is check state and local regulations regarding keeping venomous snakes. The penalty for being caught in violation of these rules can be very severe. Furthermore, it gives our hobby yet another black-eye.
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Chris Harrison
San Antonio, Texas

I'm considering getting a Mangrove snake? Do you know of any place i could get one?

Here's a great place for Vipers and Diamondbacks.

Paul Hollander
Link