Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Well, I was looking at the classifieds and saw an ad for cobra gardens. Nothing out the ordinary, untill I clicked on the second pic. The guy had a good sized king around him and he was freely holding it. My first thought, Venomoid, but from the looks of it, it didn't look much like a venomoid. So I read and on the bottom it said that they do not perticipate in venomoids.
So is this thing for real? I mean is he really just carelessly freehandling a King??
I'm just trying to find out, so don't get mad at me.
Here's the pic.

Yes, It's a fully loaded King Cobra. He does not advocate "free handling" but took this quick pic for impact. I guess he succeeded! I've been to Thailand to where people in a village keep these monsters as pets. I also saw the senior keeper at the Thai Red Cross "snake farm" where they produce antivenom "free handle" many of them. He explained that they become quite tame while their services are required for venom collection. They seem to talk the whole thing in stride. I saw him handle one monster that was 15 and had a head bigger than most mens hand. It is a truly dangerious act, that has a potiental to go wrong at any time.

>>Well, I was looking at the classifieds and saw an ad for cobra gardens. Nothing out the ordinary, untill I clicked on the second pic. The guy had a good sized king around him and he was freely holding it. My first thought, Venomoid, but from the looks of it, it didn't look much like a venomoid. So I read and on the bottom it said that they do not perticipate in venomoids.
>>So is this thing for real? I mean is he really just carelessly freehandling a King??
>>I'm just trying to find out, so don't get mad at me.
>>Here's the pic.
>>

It's a CBB 12'-13' proven breeder male Thailand King, and fully loaded. He is a very cooperative snake. Looking good Sean (the snake of course LOL)!
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Chad Bachman

The owner (Sean) does not believe in "venomoid snakes" It's the real deal. Thai Kings are known for their "docility" Read my first post on this topic. I'm NOT a proponent of "Free Handling" at all.

>>It's a CBB 12'-13' proven breeder male Thailand King, and fully loaded. He is a very cooperative snake. Looking good Sean (the snake of course LOL)!
>>-----
>>Chad Bachman

I know all about the animal. He is a good natured snake, as most male Kings are.
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Chad Bachman

Risky or not, it's one cool pic.

I never thought a cup would be a desired peice of equipment but maybe I'll think again

Any no-name person posting a pic of him/herself freehandling an intact venomous snake is horrible and they get jumped on about it, as they should. But if the person is a respectable member of the community and "knows" the cobra, it's fine? Anyone else see a double standard?

Posting pictures of yourself freehandling a venomous snake is not only risky to you but to the entire hobby. I don't care if you're Joey Noname or Bill Haast, it's stupid, plain and simple. And to think, I've been jumped on before for taking photos of some kaouthia outside....lol. Gotta love the venomous community.
-Chance
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Chance Duncan

It seems that the same people (not pointing fingers at anyone that posted so far...) that slam Joe Nobody for free handling a mangrove or something are the first one to say "well, he knows what he's doing" or "it's tame." I've accepted the fact the hot keepers only have a limited amount of time before being a hot keeper is outlawed nation wide. It sucks, but it's going to happen.

Thus I would have to disagree with there being a double standard. Perhaps it would be best to visit the place and the owner in person before critisizing him. Then if you still had a problem you could take it up with him in person. I for one compliment him on his obvious handling skills and fine animal. In addition I salute his entrepreneurial spirit.
Good luck Sean.

Don Tipton
Rocky Mountain Vivarium
Casper, Wy.

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