hwo to get liscence/permit for venomous in NJ?

I have toyed with the idea myself of getting a copperhead. NY state laws prohibit them without a permit and a class by the DEC. I would say a great first step is to find out which snake you are interested in and observe it respectfully in the wild. I currently still do not own one because I am still doing observations myself. Never try to pick up any wild venomous snake just do some keen observations from a distance. Once you have made the decision to get one I would take the class then get the permit. From that point I would go to a local zoo or to a breeder and ask if you could shadow them for a while and take notes on how they handle them. Also take a look on youtube there are quite a few experienced people on there that show great vids on how to properly handle, milk, tube, etc a venomous snake. Then finally get the snake.


I only say do it all in that order because it will only take one mistake. check out some snake bite vids on youtube there are a lot of them. I would personally go for a less venomous snake like a pygmy rattler or a copperhead. If you are bitten by one of them then you run less of a risk of death. I would defiantly not start with a monocled cobra or black mamba or anything like that. Get to know the venomous snakes in your area before moving on to snakes from other regions.

I would also like to add the fact you are here asking questions and not just rushing out and getting the first venomous snake you see shows good responsibility on your part. There are people who don't even get the permit and pick them right out of the wild. Which you are clearly not doing.

The people who are stressing to be responsible have probably just seen so many people do this sort of stuff and just want you to take the best course of action. They simply don't want to so you or a snake get hurt from not being fully educated on the subject.

Good Luck and remember to ask questions.