finding wild snakes

[stevepoppers]

I just got my first ball python and I'm finding these animals amazing. Now I want to go out and start catching the ratsnakes and copperheads and gartersnakes we have here around the Ohio River Valley! Am I going crazy? I know the copperhead may be stretching it, but I've read ratsnakes can be captured and kept. And wow, the copperheads are really beautiful. What can I do to find snakes besides just keeping an eye out? I've been running around in the woods my whole life and have only run across one copperhead and a blacksnake or two. I'd like to at least see some.

[Mettle]

First off, know the laws in your area. In many places the collecting of native wildlife is prohibited and those found doing so could be faced with serious fines or in some cases jail time.

Second, just don't. Leave the wild in the wild. There are plenty of captive bred snakes to be had. No need to poach them from the wild and bring along all the issues of parasites and disease that they may come with. It's simply not worth it.

Third, don't go anywhere near venomous snakes. Please. Do NOT attempt to capture and keep a copperhead. You're begging to become a headline at that point and your eventual death or serious injury will reflect poorly on the rest of the hobbyists out there. Don't even think about going near venomous snakes until you have logged sufficient hours with a mentor who has imparted great amounts of knowledge to you.

You just got a ball python... Slow 'er down a bit. Enjoy the one snake and ensure all is well before diving in and getting more. And get yourself a camera so you can take pics of the ones in their native habitat instead of bringing them home.

[stevepoppers]

Got it. I'd probably feel bad captivating it anyway. I really just wanna see the darn things a bit more. They freakin beautiful.

[Mettle]

Definitely agree with you there! Beautiful indeed!

Sometimes appreciating that beauty in its native habitat, or from a safe proximity/proper environment, is key not only for the animal's safety and well being but also our own.

Best of luck with the new ball python!

[redpython]

here ya go:

http://www.amazon.com/Hunting-Method...1851908&sr=8-1

you can even buy it from will bird, one of the authors and he will autograph it.

[sheffernan13]

Please be careful......

I vol. in a pet store here in Albuquerque, Nm and it is a common occurance that we get someone in there that gets their first corn snake or ball python and suddenly they are experienced in snake handling. I am not saying that you could not be successful in the wild herping, but just realize that copperheads and cottonmouths are in a gene pool that can be a little agressive and have been known to actually chase people that get too close. Enjoy the animals that you have and observe from a distance.