Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I know in no way does working with a different species prepare you for working with the actaul species. BUT...I've read articles saying racers, coachwhips, and atb's are good to practice handling. I was wondering what you guys thought of this. Again, I realize it's not the same. I also know the mentor aspect is going to pop up and I agree with it as well. My question is just about working with nonvenomous species that may exhibit some of the same behaviors as some of the venomous ones.

And for I mean nonvenomous by nature just to avoid beating that dead horse in this post.

The snakes you mentioned do good impressions of their venomous counterparts without the actual possibility of death. They will get you familiar with some of the physiological capabilities of elapids and such, but will do little to prepare you viperids, because physiologically they are dissimilar. Asian rats also make good substitutes. However, NOTHING can prepare you for keeping hots like a hot. In the back of your mind, a coachwhip will always be harmless. Once you've got some handling technique down, it'd be good to find a mentor or at the very least a keeper who's willing to show you his setup for his animals and give you some pointers.

One very experienced keeper that I have tremendous respect for has mentioned that some non-venomous snakes are even more spastic and difficult to control than their venomous counterparts, which I don't doubt.

Didn't realize you mentioned ATB's...they do make good arboreal viper substitutes. Especially the really cranky ones.

You answered your own question. I suggest racers. They're quick easily agitated, and something you're ALWAYS gonna wanna have your eyes on when you have it out of the cage. Definitely takes 100% of your concentration, as should handling any venomous snake. Good practice.
Of course, Im following the stereotypical behavior of racers, Im sure there are a few nice ones out there.
-----
Tom
TCJ Herps
"The more people I meet, the more I like my snakes"

Thanks guys. I was just interested to see what people's opinions were.

WC specimens of those and gopher snakes make great practice snakes for hooking and handling. Garter snakes and water snakes are basically a nonvemous version of coppers and mocs and work well too. Try to volunteer someplace, THAT will help out alot when you are forced to get permits for your animals.
Good luck!
Lat