Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I'm an avid snake keeper right now keeping only nonvenomous species. but in my early days i did (illegally i admit) from lack of knowledge keep a wild caught baby cottonmouth. i did my homework on he animal and learned just about everything i needed to keep it. I mean from tank regulations to the food it needed and venom toxicity. but now that im a more determined herper and not as ignorant i would like to obtain a permit to keep hots. i feel that im suited to take this on and would like to know the procedure. Do i just have to call the FWS or what? I'm really interested and any help would be greatly welcomed. well thanx for your time

Chris Stevens

You have to check with your state's laws. Usually an application requires experience with the species you wish to keep by a qualified professional, along with permit fees.

well how do i get experience before i can aquire them legally?

You must work with a mentor for a few years, someone with professional experience, like a zookeeper.

Is that required and if so do i just go to a zoo and ask for a mentor? i mean i dont know how to go about it. well anyways get back to me.

Im still looking into it myself. Do you know your state requirements? Some dont have laws against keeping venomous animals. Try here:

http://www.coastalreptiles.com/venomous_laws.htm

They have info on laws and contact information. Contact your states wildlife service to see what exactly is required, some states are easier than others. They may also be able to refer you to a mentor. I also read a piece on kingsnake.com that said to look for mentors in the classified section, though I havent figured out which section they are in nor have I seen one yet.

Thanks alot! I found that louisiana has no permit required. so now that im not law bound what do you feel would be a good starter hot? Like i said before the most experiebce i've had is with a baby cottonmouth. So what should i start of with? i want a good started snake with nice looking colors and not extremely difficult to keep. well like i said thanx for all the help.

P.S. How do i make a signature?

Im not a hot keeper, so I dont know what you should start with. I heard copperheads are good and the venom isnt usually lethal. Be sure to read up on keeping hots. Remember to get liability insurance incase someone living with you gets bit. You need a good plan for a bite, always assume there will be one. Make sure the cage will not break if dropped and has a secure lock on it. There are all kinds of necessary precautions that I cannot provide because I do not keep them.

Well thanks for all of he help any way. It's greatly appreciated!

Chris Stevens