I agree with Chris about the worse case scenario. I have kept both Rhinos & Copperheads. In my experience, Copperheads are easier to maintain and ride a hook after acclimating to captivity. Rhinos will usually ride a hook but you end up useing two hooks to support them as adults. Rhinos as juveniles need to be soaked on a regular basis to be sure they are drinking. They are known to dehydrate due to the inability of locating/accesing water bowls. They can also instill a false sense of security because of their seemingly laid back attitude. Don't kid yourself, they can jump up and do a 180' on you! I would recommend the Copperhead. To tell you the truth, I am surprised that a zoo keeper would recommend an exotic (highly venomous) hot over a native (not so hot) for a first hot.
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Tim Cole
www.Designeratrox.com/
www.AustinReptileService.net
www.AustinReptileExpo.com/
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Conservation through Education