I live in north-ish/northeastern-ish indiana, outside of muncie and marion. At times, I also live in Indianapolis and often travel to visit family down towards the state border, right across the river from Louisville. Basically, I have always had a thing for snakes and would like to start catching, breeding, and possibly selling snakes. I want to know if there is anyone in my area that is able to/willing to help me start out. I have no problems handling snakes since I was introduced to them very early in life and I know how to catch snakes, for the most part. I'm not afraid to catch venomous snakes, either. If there is anyone out there willing to help, please respond.
2007-05-07 10:32:30 · 6 answers · asked by hallooin_bran 2 in Pets ➔ Reptiles
Check with your state and local laws first, since many states DO now have laws against catching native snakes, at least without a permit. I know that Ohio does, so it's best to check your state law. Fortunately, South Carolina doesn't, and it seems that we're going to be one of the few states left where you can keep animals of ANY kind. It's NOT illegal in every state, in spite of what you're told, but each state is different.
My best advice, as someone who's caught, kept and breed snakes of various species for over 30 years, is to find yourself a "mentor", an adult who lives nearby who is familiar with snakes and their care and their habits, who can "show you the ropes", so to speak. Join forums that discuss snakes and reptiles in general. Attend reptile shows in your area and talk to people, and DON'T be in any big hurry to capture or keep venomous species, since it takes a LOT of experience with non-venomous first. I was well into my thirties before I thought I was experienced enough to catch or keep a venomous snake, and even I NEVER handle one without the proper tools-a snake hook and a set of Midwest snake tongs. The two sites below should help you answer some questions, including the legal aspect of catching native snakes in your state.
2007-05-07 15:15:29 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Without realizing it, you are about to enter the world of regulation that few escape from!
In most states, you would be considered a 'commercial collector' (collecting wild animals to breed and sell), and need a license for that. In some states this is an annoying formality, in others it is a major headache.
Once you get started, you also have zoning laws to deal with- can you run a business like that from your home? Insurance (what if someone you sell to gets bitten and blames you? What if one of your own snakes bites you- are you covered?) State game and parks or animal control people, etc.
Then there is the issue that the market for captive bred native reptiles, other than a few species, is pretty slim. Remember- most of your customers have no problems with handling snakes and can catch their own.
The basic idea has merit. You just need to tweak it. Business experience and animal care experience will help a lot.
2007-05-07 20:37:51 · answer #2 · answered by Madkins007 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
DON'T CATCH WILD SNAKES! Ok now that I've said that I'll get into the rest. If you catch a snake in your area *Depending on where you live* you cannot legally breed or sell it. Buy a few snakes from a breeder THEN breed. If you wanna know more about breeding talk to a breeder. If your into doing corns, milks, and kings I recommend extreme snakes. There awsome people and have great animals
2007-05-07 17:38:52 · answer #3 · answered by Global girl 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's illegal to just catch a wild snake, force it into captivity, and expect it to breed.
Consider purchasing captive bred snakes for breeding. That way you are able to breed captive bred snakes (which is more likely to bring buyers, than wild-caught).
2007-05-07 17:36:27 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
what a wonder full idea as being where you come from
that part of that dessert is boring..and [hot]
sipping that Kentucky mash...it finally got to your
neck...[military life] ...semi retired ready to become
a state trooper Good Luck...with the tequila..with the
baby snake in the bottle... its fiesta time behind that wall on
those State borders.....BEING WE CELEBRATE MAYO.
''guardialahara Guardia La Hara,,,''...!!!!
2007-05-07 18:22:33 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
Just Breed. It will take your mind off this "snake thing"!
2007-05-07 17:40:41 · answer #6 · answered by sunkissed 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋