I've been interested in snakes for a long time, and over the recent months that interest was sparked while visiting a local shop that also had on display a few species of elapids. Since that time, I've collected a few books on venomous snakes and spent (and continue to spend) time researching additional information on the internet. I've also enjoyed the videos Phobos posts regularly.
I've enquired with my local herp society, but was quickly met with the formal response that they do not support the keeping of hot herps, nor mentoring, and that I should look elsewhere. Ultimately, I've tried joining the SHHS group to which my membership has been pending for several weeks. I'm still optimistic that will pan out, and have sent a follow up email to the group owner in the hopes of speeding that process along. The local zoo only a small handful of snakes, African Rock Python, Mole snakes, and an emerald tree boa so volunteering there doesn't seem as beneficial.
That brings me to the forums here. I've exhausted just about every credible source of hot herp experience I can think of in the hopes of finding someone in the Pacific Northwest that I might mentor under. I'm interested in finding someone who would be willing to share their knowledge, and appreciation of snakes. Finding someone local whom is willing to mentor would be a plus. I live in Clackamas County, but am certainly willing to travel a reasonable distance.
