Why do I work with venomous reptiles?
Posted in General By rob_carmichael on June 07th 2007
That’s a question I am frequently asked. Although some folks think that I endanger my life on a daily basis, nothing could be further from the truth. No different than a law enforcement officer learning proper firearm safety, I, too, follow a very strict set of safety standards and procedures when I work with out venomous herp collection. Aside from a little nip from a baby beaded lizard, I have a perfect safety record over the past 20 years of working with venomous herps professionally. I take great pride in this record and am 100% confident that I will continue the safe keeping of venomous reptiles. With nearly 100 venomous reptiles ranging from rattlesnakes, various vipers, and elapids (such as cobras and mambas), I know how important it is to follow certain absolutes of safe venomous keeping. My Head Animal Keeper, Bryan Suson, has been a fast learned and his attention to detail and mastery of proper handling techniques is something that I am very proud. We all enjoy it when one of our pupils exceeds our expectations. Bryan has a bright future in this field.
So what does it take to work with venomous reptiles? Here’s a few important components:
- Maturity: You have to take this very seriously. Most folks wishing to work with venomous reptiles shouldn’t. You must have a professional attitude towards keeping them.
- Living a clean lifestyle: Getting plenty of sleep at night, having a clear and sound mind, and, not overindulging in alcholol and NEVER (ever) taking drugs, are essential components. The better you keep yourself in shape, the quicker your reflexes.
- Resources: It costs a lot of money to keep venomous reptiles. Not only do you need special housing, but you also need your own supply of antivenin (which can costs thousands and thousands of dollars).
- Experience and Knowledge: It took me many years of working with non venomous herps before I started working with venomous species. It’s important to master the use of snake hooks, tongs, and other handling techniques before working with venomous.
- MENTOR: Having a mentor to work under is crucial for long term success.
So why do I enjoy working with venomous reptiles? It’s not for the “oh wow” factor or showboating. Nothing could be further from the truth. Instead, I find venomous reptiles absolutely fascinating; it consumes my thoughts and is my passion. I hold the utmost of respect for these incredible animals. And, they are beneficial to humans as we now know that their venom may cure some of the world’s worst diseases.
Hurray for venomous reptiles!
