The two rattlesnakes I have are wild caught that I caught this past summer. I have had more WC crotes and colubrids then just these two, but I usually keep them to give them a couple good meals, then let them on their way. They have no problems eating and shedding, etc. I just keep them to look at, they probably wouldn't be much fun to hold, lol (the crotes, anyway). But seriously, I do learn ALOT from keeping them. I learn about their habits (feeding, basking, hiding out, etc). It is VERY interesting. I have gained alot of respect for them, too. I don't see anything wrong with WC specimens, as long as you know what you are doing, or know someone very close that does, so you can do everything right.