How to get started with venemous

I have been keeping non venemous for a couple years. I have become interested in eyelash vipers and cobras. But I would obviously want to start with eyelash vipers. What can I do to learn how to handle them. Where can i get experience or how did you guys get experience.

Thanks.

Ahh Grasshopper. First you must get a Coachwhip. When you no longer get bitten by that then you will be ready for venomous.

You stated correctly that a cobra is not a starter snake. The eyelash vipers, while beautiful, require a tropical vivarium. They are arboreal and rarely leave the safety of their branch. They need to be fed small rodents infrequently (every 12-14 days) and require a humid environment. I would suggest extensively researching the animal you are interested in BEFORE you aquire it. Only buy captive born from a reputable breeder who has lots of experience keeping the herp species. This breeder should make themselves available for information and advice before and after the sale. Good luck, David

Originally Posted by redrott

I have been keeping non venemous for a couple years. I have become interested in eyelash vipers and cobras. But I would obviously want to start with eyelash vipers. What can I do to learn how to handle them. Where can i get experience or how did you guys get experience.

Preparation is the key, and your approach to this specialized field of herpetoculture is 100% correct. Good for you. If I can be of any assistance, please feel free to e-mail me spzoo@sbcglobal.net

Before you pursue this hobby...
-Examine and abide by your state and local ordinances
-You must be at least 18yrs of age
-Learn appropriate first aid and antivenin (spend some time doing this)
-Learn about the natural history of commonly kept species

Personally, I recommend supervised guidance from an experienced keeper for at least a year. The FL model suggests 1000hrs of apprenticeship before issuance of permit. Refrain from using venomoid snakes as training methods. This is not the way to go.

I am self taught. Experience is my ally, but during this learning process, I feel it's best to trouble shoot w/ a mentor and avoid mistakes rather than participate directly in the mistake opening one up to unnecessary liabilities. For some, mistakes aren't forgiving. There are quite a few hot keepers in VA. With a little effort on your part, hopefully you can find someone to assist you quickly.

Masticophis sp. are often recommended as great trainers for hot snakes. This is true. I also like to recommend fresh WC Rock Pythons (P. s. sebae) in the 5-7ft range. Purchase a sturdy hook, and practice tailing it. P. sebae are great snakes to practice with as they are large, strong, aggressive, and squirrelly. Your wrists and forearms will get a great workout, and this will give you some "idea" as what to expect. Before buying cobras, spend some time working with them. Again, feel free to e-mail me anytime.

Sean P.

Any Naja or Bothrops species is prob not going to make a good starter.I would recomed a native species such as a Copperhead or Masassauga.Eyelash as stated above require more husbandry than many other species(and not to mention they can be very difficult to deal with somtimes) .Elapids also require ALOT of attention and time and are obviously difficult to deal with.A Copperhead if well started should be easy to care for.Also in the event you do get tagged the exotic AV can be very hard to come by and could cost you dearly.Either way make sure you make a good choice and do tons of research.Try to hook up with another venomous keeper in your area.That is the best way to get into hots.I used to drive 4 hrs to work with someone who was willing to teach me.Welcome to venomous they are a very fascinating and rewarding part of my life and, I hope they will be to you.

BE CAREFUL!! and ask tons of questions.The people on this site have an infinete ammount of info to share with you.

Trey Small

Thanks for your input. I doubt I will be able to find anybody near me that can help me out. I don't even know but a couple of people that have snakes. And as I am sure you know you can't tell sometimes if they know what they are doing. If anybody who sees this would be willing to teach me a little let me know.
Thanks

Well I went and got me a copperhead this past spring. Since I couldn't find anyone willing to work with me. Heck i can't even find any local venomous keepers. He was doing fine and still is as far as I know. He doesn't ever attempt to strike except at food. Not that I would assume this to mean it is safe to do anything stupid like try to touch him or not pay attention to him when dealing with him. He has gone off feed right now I am assuming because winter is coming in. I have him at the same temps but he was wild caught so I think he knows it is time anyway. However I will try to feed him once a month and if he starts back I will get him on his regular schedule. He looks fine now doesn't look malnurished or anything so anyway. I am enjoying my first venomous.