Learning process: How can I get hands-on experience with snakes?

[Rhyasha]

I had a bit of a revelation the other day. I've always had a fascination for reptiles and snakes in particular, but never been able to do much with that interest. Now I finally have a snake of my own and the interest I have has only increased. I feel after much research that I am competent in basic care and necessities, but there is so much more I want to learn.

I realize that a lot of knowledge comes through practical experience, but I have neither the space nor the finances right now to be able to have even a small collection of snakes to get such experience. Not that my little one isn't quite the teacher mind you, but being a healthy, happy juvenile he can't give me some of the information I want to learn.

A few years down the road, perhaps, I would love to be able to take in unwanted/neglected herps as well as work with wild ones for rehabilitation. There seems to be a shortage of people willing to work with snakes in particular and I would like to be able to fit in that gap one day.

Things in particular I'd like to learn:
--Proper handling and restraint from hatchling corn snakes to retics/burms
--snake body language
--how to tell a snake is ill
--treating a sick snake
--husbandry of various species
--breeding/hatching/baby care

I guess my request then is how would I go about finding a person/persons who would be willing to teach me? I would be quite happy to clean out cages and do grunt work in return for the experience.

Any advice/suggestions are extremely welcome.

~Eliza

[DragonBalls]

Have you been to NERD?? http://www.newenglandreptile.com/ in Plaistow??

[Rhyasha]

I have been to NERD, in fact I bought my pastel male from them. They have an absolutely awesome facility. But seeing as they are a business, rather than just a home based outfit, I'm a bit hesitant to call them up and say "Do you need a volunteer/knowledge sponge to clean stuff a few times a month?" Maybe I should give it a try though, worst they can say is no, right?

[Freakie_frog]

Kara and Kev are wonderful people. I can't speak for them but I know that they work hard to try and help people enjoy this hobby to the fullest.

[SarahMB]

You might see if there is a herp society in your area that you could join.

[Kara]

I have been to NERD, in fact I bought my pastel male from them. They have an absolutely awesome facility. But seeing as they are a business, rather than just a home based outfit, I'm a bit hesitant to call them up and say "Do you need a volunteer/knowledge sponge to clean stuff a few times a month?" Maybe I should give it a try though, worst they can say is no, right?

Check your PM's. Hope to see ya soon!

K~

[Ginevive]

Learning about snakes from NERD would be like, someone interested in horseback riding, learning to jump from Olympic medalists!

[JLC]

Check your PM's. Hope to see ya soon!

K~

Eliza, I think you're in for a real treat!!

[hoo-t]

Check your PM's. Hope to see ya soon!

K~

WOW! Kara ROCKS!!!

Steve

[stangs13]

Eliza, I think you're in for a real treat!!

I agree! Kara is Amazing.