Thinking of getting some Gilas in a few months>>>>>>>>>>>

[gmherps]

When I finally decide to purchase Gila Monsters, is there a way I could protect myself from buying possible WC animals? I mean you hear of these reptile stings sometimes where the buyer is caught buying some animal(s), and the law is right there and they get busted. The reason I ask is that I've seen ads on K.S.
and it looks to easy to buy them. I know the only paperwork I would need (if it were necessary) is local venomous permits. Inwhich the city I live in doesn't have any restrictions.
Is there any other things I can do to protect myself?
Thanks,

[Tom]

Yes there is. Research as much as you can about the person(s) you're buying from. Only buy from long established breeders such as Dr. Seward who's web address you can find listed at the other popular reptile website. Gilas are an investment that requires getting the best animals you can at the outset for success down the road. Good luck with your project.

Tom

[Seamus Haley]

I agree with... Tom... can't go wrong purchasing from some of the more established and well known breeders, with Seward being at the top of a fairly short list.

He's pricier than others, but you really do get what you paid for and you never have to worry about Arizona fish and game wandering by the house because they were tracking a subcutaneous radio transmitter.

Some of the best information avaliable on their natural history, captive husbandry and general care avaliable too.