Should Venomous Reptiles Be Illegal? | My Opinion On Venomous Snakes In Private Collections

[@dwightmansburden7722]

People can be highly trained and extremely responsible, and still have accidents. Tornadoes, house fires, whatever- my concern is for first responders who might be at risk. A permit system ideally would let first responders know what exactly they are facing. I don’t own reptiles but this is fascinating. Love your videos.

[@stewiegriffin88]

I live in Missouri and basically anyone can own venomous snakes but it's mandatory there's signs on the door leading into the room the snakes are kept and the cage must be marked with a "☠️ venomous" label. Definitely agree a permit system should be in place to make sure they are properly kept

[@sauronthegreat489]

I'm probably one of very few who actually keeps hots . I label all of mine for that very reason. The hots I do have are in their own locked room and locked enclosures. My state basically has no regulations. However, I want to keep so I have traveled basically across the US for some training and I'm sticking to native species for a long time .

[@Sitchinite420]

Yeah there are many cases of people keeping venomous snakes in dark totes. In one case chick died she had like 30 venomous snakes one was loose and one cop almost got nailed by a cobra when he opened a tote with no tag, no lock, no warning labels of any kind!

[@deadeyes6610]

I keep venomous snakes. I really love watching discussions like this about keeping venomous and I have to agree with you. No person shall aquire venomous snakes without proper training, knowledge, and experience. That's why there are mentorships before getting your venomous reptiles, you should at least fill the 1000 hours for each family in able for you to be qualified and also follow safety protocols and proper housing.

[@AustenSzn]

That's exactly what you have to do in Florida buddy.

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

I totally agree!

[@deadeyes6610]

@@AustenSzn yeah that's what other countries/states should consider as well if they have a lot of venomous keepers there.

[@aidannugent9827]

Dead Eyes do you know anybody in the New Orleans area willing to mentor for a restricted snake permit?

[@deadeyes6610]

@@aidannugent9827 Nah mate, you should join our facebook group. "Venomous Reptile Keeper Mentorship" maybe you can find someone in there.

[@AuroraExotics]

I would love to see some regulation on this coming from inside the hobby. I'd personally vote for something a little more strict than just a permit. Require locked cages in locked rooms, and a regular collection inspection done by people who also work with hots. Not sure how funding for something like that would work, but that's the future I'd love to see. Great topic!

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

I like the locked cages in locked rooms idea

[@ireignsupreme2355]

the cobra/black mamba KZbinr guy says he has locked room and locked cage in a hurricane tornado proof room

[@zfouleur]

You sound like a communist.

[@TheGreatWolfYT]

One thing that is brought in discussions on this topic is that lawmakers usually don't know much about it and would probably make a law that ends up being stupid based on incorrect/ outdated info or popular myths I heard once that some countries have associations or some kind of institution separate from the state that deals with exotic pets and since they know their stuff they can make actual useful rules

[@AllCanadianReptileGirl]

I agree - for example here in Canada we can't keep dubia roaches (an excellent feeder insect for many reptiles), which is ridiculous because they aren't able to survive our winters, so there isn't the risk of them becoming an invasive species. I think a separate law making group/body with experts in this area is an excellent idea.

[@TheGreatWolfYT]

@@AllCanadianReptileGirl that's unfortunate. Where I live there aren't many laws regarding exotic pets (except you can't own a critically endangered species or a species protected in our country) so if you want a hot you can just get it There is an association forming that wants to make sure that when laws will be made they'll make sense and be based on actual info, but bureaucracy is damned

[@AllCanadianReptileGirl]

@@TheGreatWolfYT I hope the new association works for you/your country/reptile keepers. Maybe it will help bring change here too.

[@Diablopetnurse]

I’m Australian and we have a tiered licence system that people with higher licenses sign off on to say your competent

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

solid way to do it

[@nataliesreptiles]

Definitely should have this system in the Americas.

[@sce2aux464]

1000 hours certified and documented experience in Florida.

[@mypawfectfamily]

Love that you actually discuss controversial issues! Everyone seems too scared of stepping on toes to actually have these much needed conversations!

[@kevinthegrizzly5074]

I totally agree Adam. One more common sense step- you should only be allowed to keep native venomous species. A small community hospital may not have taipan or bushmaster antivenin readily available. If remember correctly, zoos and research labs aren't required to provide outside individuals with antivenin. I believe there should also be an age requirement. EXCELLENT video my friend. Take care. 👍🏾

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

thanks for your feedback :)

[@AllCanadianReptileGirl]

Talk about a "hot" topic! I agree with you that keepers should have to hold a permit and complete some kind of training, but only for reptiles that require anti-venom to treat (not for hognoses, false water cobras, mangrove snakes, etc.) and there needs to be anti-venom on hand at all times. Great video as always! And Diamond, hilarious!

[@caseysilva6919]

I do agree that if you are going to take the extra steps to do things correctly, and making sure that others will not be impacted by owning a venomous reptile, then it should be their right to own. On the other hand, things can happen no matter how careful you are. Case in point how my Mourning Gecko escaped and has been free roaming the house for 2 weeks now. I was so careful, but it happened. Granted it is not venomous, but what a royal pain trying to catch this sucker.

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

true, no matter what, things happen

[@yoonmikim5663]

I would rather the person have a "test" like a driver's test, rather than just a paper test. From what I understand from watching multiple videos, you need considerable hands-on training to work with such snakes. So a paper test seems a bit thin, but I like the principle.

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

Great point!

[@claytonsanchez5264]

I think Florida has a system like that in place. Something like you have to be taught by a already licensed handler, and they have to sign off on a number of hous of supervised husbandry before you're licensed to be solo. I also think there's something about the door to the room being locked as well as the enclosure.

[@waverindarkness3385]

I know with birds of prey you need to be an apprentice first. Maybe even a short class would be good. Like 10 hours of handling and husbandry training.

[@kodavulpedrius6712]

Haha, thanks to a local pet store, it's EXTREMELY hard to get venomous reptiles in my city. A cobra escaped a pet store and bit a child (the child was fine, we have so many local venomous animals). We need a permit for any reptile here, but for venomous animals, you have to have a certified venomous snake handelling certificate (a certified certificate, wow) a ton of inspections, you have to be a certain age, and you have to get more animals over time starting from harmless to mildly venomous, to venomous. Like you have to build your way up to a deadly animal. Any how cool vid, can't wait for more.

[@sslide_trickyy]

Finally, this is being discussed

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

hope you like it

[@jasonbarrett3994]

Great video!!!!! I love the way that not only do you express your opinions, but you do so in a very intelligent manner!!!! As long as people act responsible with their animals, the powers that be will be less likely to enforce extreme laws like what is going on currently in Florida, on us reptile keepers!!!!

[@Trixdee]

Even though I felt that private collectors don’t need to be messing with venomous reptiles I still listened and found your answer reasonable and I kinda softened my stance a bit even in this fairly short video. I don’t own any but I find your videos informative, to the point and well done. 👍

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

thank you very much!

[@elishamcdowell7306]

Florida requires 1k hours of training under someone with their license (for each type i believe), add that to what you said about test and accountability and possible liability insurance in case of accident. Glad you talked about this.

[@ethancooper1560]

I live in West Virginia, but I know more about snake laws in Florida because of Tyler Nolan, also from what I understand there’s not many restrictions at all here

[@elizabethsmithakaelizabeth3332]

I think this is a fabulous idea. What I love about your videos is you always welcome feedback.

[@bradd.1339]

So glad its being talked about. I'm very much in the middle about the situation. But I'd definitely say that it needs to be much better regulated. Experience, training, and requirements should all be considered. I like Florida's requirement of 1,000 hrs of experience per venomous class, before getting your permit to be able to handle the that snake type, as well as required snake proof rooms with enough space to remove snakes safely. Things like that definitely filters the people getting these snakes and lizards.

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

interesting system!

[@bradd.1339]

@@WickensWickedReptiles by no means a solution. But definitely a start.

[@jackday7909]

Great video! In the same breath, should the same restrictions be placed on large constrictors? They can kill you just as easily as venomous in a lot less time, and antivenom obviously will make no difference with a feeding response from a 14ft burm or 18ft retic.

[@DeluluIsTheSolulu]

This is legit your best video (I love the other ones too, don't worry!) I hope many people watch it and think logically about the topic.

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

really!? wow, thank you

[@kevinhorstmann1435]

I am neither keeping nor getting venomous reptiles, but your reasoning is great! i am watching just for the content and the infos

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

I appreciate that!

[@swaminathanj5110]

You have been giving great advice thank you . I subbed

[@jdj7849]

Although I'm not from Canada but Europe (Germany) I totally agree with you. I kept venomous snakes for about 20 years but had to stop it when massive health issues made a proper and safe handling and caring impossible. Although my health problems became better over time but I had moved from a big house (where I had my snake collection in a locked up room of 100 m²) into a much smaller appartement. I still got all the permits to keep all kinds of dangerous animals including venoumous snakes but I don't do it anymore. I don't have a special room that is safe enough to make it impossible for a snake to get out if anything unforseen happens (e.g. not locking up the enclosure correctly). And I don't want to harm someone else or bring danger in the life of someone else because I keep venomous reptiles. I stopped everything because it's my responsibility. And beside that - the most expensive part in keeping venomous snakes was renewing the expired antivenin that I kept at home. It was not a "you must have antivenin" but I did it for my own safety. In my opinion it should be mandatory to have antivenin at home. It would stop a lot of wannabe's to get venomous snakes if they are confronted with the costs of antivenin. I started with reptiles 50 years ago and 10 years later I "switched" to venomous snakes before I stopped everything 20 years ago. I needed a lot of permits even back then and I had to pass a lot of tests before I got these permits. It was a lot of money that I put into my hobby but looking back it was worth it.

[@cwolf3026]

I 100% agree with you on literally everything you had to say in this video! Good job my man on this video!! i even have my own collection of venomous but i still agree with you. keep up the great work and keep on the grind

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@bmuddd_]

Here in Texas you can buy a venomous permit for 20 bucks at your typical hunting/fishing store. It’s ridiculous. I’m all for keeping venomous reptiles, but there absolutely needs to be more restrictions.

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

I agree 100%

[@anthonycrayne2835]

I agree with you on everything you said pretty much. I personally wouldnt get anything venomous that could potentially kill me. But if someone else does good for them.

[@kalebm.4925]

A permit system makes LOGICAL sense, but then if logic was the key to keeping these animals safely we wouldn't need regulation at all. I agree with enough of your arguments to leave a like vs a dislike. Keep up the content.

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

thanks for taking the time to comment too :)

[@snakefang1123]

Also I don't know if you would remember me per say, but I messaged you a while back about my picky eater ball python Lucifer who went on a pretty long starvation period where he wouldn't eat. Your words and advice along with a few others in the hobby helped a lot with him and he eventually began eating again. But I was wondering if you could make a in depth video about how long and all the different reasons a snake can stop eating. Alot of KZbinrs mention it, but personally, I found that I had to do alot of digging just to calm my nerves and I think that it's something that should be discussed more because I am a mid level keeper and I was worried, imagine a beginner having a panic attack and all the stress with their first snake. Saying things like "Oh Ball Pythons/such and such snake can typically go a few months without eating" and leaving it at that really doesn't get the job done and I think a video educating why your snake most likely isn't eating would help. That way people don't jump to conclusions and suddenly have a ridiculous vet bill (Been there done that) and when it should be a good idea to visit your vet. Just a suggestion, no negativity. But I have noticed I wasn't the only one worried and there's alot of people posting to forums and alot of conflicting responses that just make things harder than they really should be, or people just dismissing signs of a sick reptile because they don't wanna get into specifics of why an animal can be behaving the way they do.

[@shiannstilley6427]

Your the best at explains these things!! Thank you 😊 I believe there should be a tiered licensing system.... just like Australia I have a cousin who lives there it’s not hard but you have to put time in to get the licensing

[@Misha-ov7rb]

The wild Wild West with kanye west was so hilarious. You content and edits are on point as usual. Keep going.

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

Appreciate that

[@CrimFerret]

It is possible to get a permit for them in my state. It involves a fairly high yearly fee, paperwork to show you know what the heck you are doing, an onsite inspection of your facility to make sure it's both safe and appropriate for the animal (which can be repeated at any time with no notice), and either insurance or a cash bond to cover liability. So they allow for it, but you'd have to be pretty dedicated to do it. For me, it's not something I'd want to chance. I don't know that I'd want to knowingly share a building with somebody keeping them either.

[@Corgisaurus-Rex]

I agree with your points here. Now, this may be a bit extreme, but I think it would also be good to have additional training/permit/license/certificate specifically for some of the more dangerous animals out there. Like getting a black mamba license, for example. It's good to weed out as many impulse keepers as possible without making the bar too high for those who are legitimately capable of caring for these animals. Also, need to make sure the system isn't just money gated, either.

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

not a bad plan

[@src3360]

Should be legal but with far more strict guidelines and fines 🤙🏻

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

good point

[@LONGLIVETHEFALLEN]

Yes finally I found a great Reptile Channel. When I get my allowance I will definitely get Patron and maybe some Merch

[@tomrockholm-timeless_morph6691]

I have to agree with you, there should definitely be a permit required and at the very least a certification of safety course to own venomous snakes in a private collection, along with a requirement to keep appropriate antivenin on hand at the site.

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

Well said!

[@zhdx54]

I took a class on how to handle venomous reptiles last week, we held 3 species of cobras (monocled, snouted, Egyptian), Two species of rattlesnakes (Timber, Western Diamondback), and a Gaboon viper. The class taught me a ton and I think it was very important to have someone instruct me on how to handle venomous reptiles. I absolutely 100% think they should be legal to privately keep. But, I also agree that a very small barrier of a permit isn't a terrible idea. I saw a facebook post that someone's Ball python escaped and then two months later they bought a King Cobra... not a smart idea. But if the permit was take a class, and a secure enclosure I am for it.

[@kiandraspenthouse6750]

I'm a Canadian and I tend to agree with you mainly because I don't think that making things illegal should be the go-to solution for every problem since it can, if it doesn't already turn law-abiding citizens into criminals (and having a criminal record is a big deal, at least in North America). However, the majority of Canadians (even those who love or own reptiles) would tend to disagree that private ownership of hots should be allowed otherwise private, individual ownership of hots wouldn't be banned in most provinces. And then there's the issue that Canada has a reputation as a "safe country" and allowing people to own animals that are known to be dangerous would somehow damage that reputation because dangerous animal in Canada = danger lurking in Canada. That aside, here's a fun fact for the comment section. Did you know that there's one province in Canada where you can't own a Hognose Snake but you can own a Gaboon Viper without permits of any sort? I'm not kidding, this is real.

[@robertkenman]

Here in Australia, it's required that anyone that wishes to keep dangerous Elapids must do a safe handling course before then being permitted by a department body. You are expected to be able to keep the animal in smart and safe ways which includes being locked inside a lockable room or each cage is individually locked. It's common sense to ensure idiots dont get their hands on something that may kill them and use up valuable medical supplies if they get bit.

[@MoarCheeseBirb]

hognose makes legislation tricky too. A great, safe, beginner friendly pet snake, so generic making all venomous reptiles illegal without a permit affects hognoses.

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

sort of, here we can't have hots but hognose snakes are ok

[@lexandreas3379]

Hots usually refers to your front fanged venomous (snake wise). A tier system wouldn't be a bad idea to help with this. So the wore the venom the more you have to show/prove you know what the hell you're doing, and something as mildly venomous as a hog nose or garter for example wouldn't need anything.

[@shooter8663]

Here in the U.S. it should be left up to the states though I don't think any state should make it illegal, the permit system is a much better option. A permit system should require you have the appropriate anti-venin on hand. If you just make them illegal it's never a good result.

[@mushrooms8242]

I think chandlers wildlife is a perfect example of what can happen if u have the right husbandry and care

[@billysmith5409]

I agree completely with this. I have no interest in owning a majorly venomous snake or lizard myself but I do think that anyone who is a responsible adult who wants to keep say a cobra or rattlesnake should be able to get the proper training take a class get their permit and get whatever species they want. I do think there should be periodic checks to make sure that they’re keeping the animal correctly and whatnot but I say as long as they’re not an idiot let them keep whatever they want.

[@billycharland1682]

I totally agree with this. in the state I live in I can go out to a show right now and buy a king cobra or inland taipan and bring it home and put it in whatever the heck I want. no laws whatsoever. I would love to get venomous but I will be getting training first. I just wish it was mandatory

[@davissimpson3634]

When the video posts I click faster than the discord notification that pops up saying a video was posted

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

you're awesome

[@staceyroberts3468]

Those r all very good points to make. I happen to agree with everything u said. It’s just about safety and some knowledge if u own venomous snakes, lizards, etc. it’s really wise to have just a few protocols when owning venomous animals 👍🏻

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

Thanks for sharing

[@sahvanna97]

There should 100% be training courses. Not be allowed to keep in apartments. And have to have permits and extensive training and someone come inspect the cage to prove it locks and they can't get out of it. This can be extremely dangerous. In my opinion. I am extremely new to the reptile hobby.

[@papyrusthegreat457]

I respect the permit idea. Im considering a gila monster if I'm still single by the time I'm 30. I know venomous animals shouldn't be taken lightly. Clint made that clear in his gaboon viper video that venomous animals are a danger in the wrong hands. And even a seemingly slow lizard could be too. That's why I'd WANT training. So I could responsibly keep one. There's only so much research does at the end of the day. I just don't want them to make hognoses need a permit since some consider them venomous

[@treys2250]

Love the content, keep it up

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@LifeOfSi]

In Western Australia we need to do so much too keep vens.

[@importdevistator]

Totally agree with you Adam 🙂👍.

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

thanks for watching :)

[@LillieLeafe]

I love watching videos on this topic. I think it is both cool and extremely stupid that someone can go out and buy a pit viper or some other venomous reptile. If you want to own one, put in the time to be properly trained. Also have a room/building that has been snake proofed, enclosures, vents, and all. Make it so it has to have a yearly inspection and that each venomous reptile you own has to be registered.

[@TheOneAndOnlyFlan]

Here in the UK, any collection (Public or private) must hold a Dangerous Wild Animals license to keep venomous reptiles, crocodilians and a number of other animals. Keepers have to prove they have the correct enclosures, conditions and provisions for the animal as well as appropriate insurance before even being granted the license. If there is any doubt that they breach safety or welfare, the animal can be seized. With regards courses, there is no requirement, but obviously highly recommended! And if you're going to the lengths to get the license, it absolutely makes sense.

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

not a bad system

[@maynardlikethecandy5347]

They shouldn’t be illegal, however there should be mandatory training & certificate. Also, can’t be stored in a rented/leased residential zoned property, with more than one family. Only family immediately affected own the snakes. Also, mandatory insurance to pay for antivenin if needed. Insurance based on species of venomous snake, and numbers of snakes.

[@TangoDelta5768]

Hi ! I agree with you, as long as it isn't going too far. For exemple, I live in France and here since the end of 2019 a New law as been adopted. Here to get dangerous or protected animals you need what we call a Certificate of Capacity, that takes 2 years in average to get and for only a few species. Since 2019 A LOT of reptiles as been added to the "dangerous list" including hognoses, white lips python and so on. And a all bunch of others are now on a mandatory list "to be declared and identified by state"and it cost 50€ per animal. Even for ball pythons or geckos .... I think it is overpowered and desapointing for people...

[@ldegraaf]

Diamond thinks he's a crested gecko, lol.

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

Diamond identifies as a crested gecko, respec the geck!

[@KingNothing5711]

Video idea, Northern BTS vs Bearded Dragon. Pro's/Con's from your perspective as a pet and potential first time lizard/reptile pet.

[@sprocketier]

I think that people should have species specific training. In person. A minimum number of hours. Training with a Gaboon Viper isn’t going to be any good if you decide you’re going to get a King Cobra. I’ve also seen a lot of people saying the government shouldn’t tell us what to do. The problem is, is that when people get a venomous snake, like you said, they are responsible for everybody in their house, and also their neighbourhood. Imagine if one of my neighbours had a king cobra and got out and it bit me. I don’t have antivenom for a king cobra, even if they do. However, I also cannot see why anybody would want a hot species in their personal collection. I know they’re beautiful and everything (Gaboon Vipers are my most favourite snake), but I would never dream of owning one. Because I don’t need a lethal animal in my house.

[@lyssdeline4178]

I don't think it should be flat out illegal but i think that perhaps a permit system or other form of accountability would be ideal when keeping hot snakes and lizards

[@kinga4b124]

I don't have venomous reptiles or ever want them, just wouldn't take the risk myself, but when this video got suggested, I said "there should be a permit system" it's just how it should be, you'd be surprised at the amount of people that decide they no longer want something when they have to put time and effort and especially money into it. I think permits need to be brought in for big snakes too imo, big snake owners get a bad name because of people releasing them like clowns, if there was a way to trace an animal back to who let it loose to give them a fine, it would prevent people from doing so, and do the right thing of rehoming their animal, or just do the research in the first place, and learn the potential size of them

[@Voakesyii]

Nice video man

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

Thanks for the visit

[@Voakesyii]

Wickens Wicked Reptiles your welcome

[@johnschlesinger2009]

I don't think online training would be anything like enough. I think in Florida you need 1000 hours of hands-on training for every species: this seems a lot, but if you want to keep elapids in particular, I reckon it's a good system. Al Coritz's videos (Viperkeeper) are a great way to observe and get an idea of the skill level needed. I absolutely agree that anyone who keeps venomous should have at least a starter dose of antivenomon in store, but this would make keepting north American rattlesnakes a very expensive proposition: crofab costs about three thousand dollars per vial - and, of course, there is an expiry date...

[@adhamelmaghalawi_7320]

I was the guy who said that I hated the argument “what’s next”. While I still don’t like that argument, I highly agree hots shouldn’t be banned, public or private collection. There should be a bit of a wall to stop careless people getting one. Keepers who have the experience should keep them

[@amandalucky8211]

I completely agree!

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

thanks for taking the time to comment

[@maskful]

As someone who has a few venomous and a 1 year old. Accidents don't happen when you're careful. I've worked with venomous for 4 years now and there are no mistakes if you get bit it's only out of carelessness. Love the video. Agree to disagree with some things though.

[@calelreptiles2715]

Great video man! I agree with you whole heartedly. I know it is controversial but you make a lot of valid points that I agree with.

[@luanrufraser2175]

Totally agree.

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

thanks for commenting

[@walnutgynneenderson4043]

I'm sad to always see kids around 5-10 years old taking a gaboon viper or rattle snake home from venomous reptile shows. I honestly will not be surprised one bit to see an article about a kid being bit by a hot snake and passing away. There should be age restrictions in hot reptile shows and restrictions for those who sell them. Rattle snakes, vipers and most heavy bodied hot snake give birth to maybe over 50 babies. They probably want to sell all of them, whether it's to a grown man with a lot of experience or to a child, thinking they're buying a fun, cute pet snake to play around with. I think that @Dead Eyes and WWR hit the target! (BTW, WWR is Wickens Wicked Reptiles.)

[@Sitchinite420]

There should be a permit process with hours of education, and the person should be required to have the proper setup and anti venom for that animal. I understand that anti venom is expensive and doesn’t have the longest shelf life but these are extremely dangerous animals. That should keep the amount at a manageable level and having an illegal venomous animal should be 10 years minimum.

[@alexp831]

Here in the uk we need a license to keep such animals. HOWEVER from my understanding there is more unlicensed keepers than there are licensed. This being said no one is dying because random people are keeping them. Its also not the case that these animals are escaping all over the place. All because someone is licensed to drive a car doesn't make them a good driver. The license in the UK is issued by individual councils and some do abuse that fact and point blank refuse to issue licenses which is technically illegal. Which is then what pushes very competent, genuine keepers "underground"

[@mushrooms8242]

Next vid could be top 10 common myths about reptiles

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

already done - kzbin.info/www/bejne/mma4gpZqjNtgoMU

[@mushrooms8242]

Wickens Wicked Reptiles o thx didn’t see it Edit: u could do one for all reptiles like how ppl say leopard geckos don’t drink from a dish

[@Evanescence1231001]

Based on what iv'e seen you already need a permit, 1000 hours of training per snake you want own as well as a plan of emergency, a special type of room, locks on every cage and more.

[@shinigamigirl666]

I agree with everything you said, except I don't think it should be *that* easy. Take falconry, for example. To become a falconer you have to be an apprentice for a minimum 2 years, train under a licensed/permitted sponsor/mentor, who helps you apply for a permit yourself (which is not guaranteed), take the written test, and complete the *mandatory* training. Local department of game/fish and wildlife employees come and inspect the enclosure to make sure it's up to par and that you have all the necessary equipment. When you're apprenticing, you're only allowed one bird, and you basically have a choice between two species. When you get your licensing and become a general falconer, you can have two birds of more species. After seven years experience, you become a master falconer, and you can have three birds of even more species. And these are large, powerful birds that can seriously injure or maim you or your neighbors, but are unlikely to kill a human. Maybe a small child. And the penalty for breaking any of these laws is up to $15,000 and/or up to 6 months imprisonment. Now, I'm not saying venomous reptiles should be THAT restricted; snakes require significantly less time and space than a hawk. But if you consider that the laws surrounding birds of prey purpose-trained for a job and eventually released to the wild are so strict - and for the bird's sake, not yours - but the laws surrounding animals that we keep strictly to look at, (hopefully) don't release, and can kill you if one tooth breaks skin are so lax? It seems incredibly backwards, doesn't it?

[@abrahamgarcia3479]

I feel like this is a very understandable answer for this topic.

[@Teejrocks83]

Lol, I'm in Alberta and just had to speak to town council as they silently proposed prohibiting all snakes over 4 feet... Apparently, there is like zero requirement for most municipalities to prove any sort of reasoning when enacting bylaws. It's up to electors to stay up to date, and try and convince council to change course or petition the municipality after the fact.

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

what a ridiculous law!

[@Cornmanism]

Would love to see a vine or parrot snake vid

[@moetthepoet]

At very least there should be a legal requirement that the owner purchases and keep up to date a stock of antivenom. This alone would make it prohibitive to people that aren't serious. That said I don't have the strongest opinions on whether they get banned or not. I kinda think people just shouldn't have Gaboon vipers... I mean if you get bitten it's not just a trip to the hospital, it could involve surgery or even amputation. If it gets out you could ruin someone's life. They are rad, no doubt, but so are many other snakes that don't have necrotic venom. But then again I also think people just shouldn't have iguanas either

[@dobber43]

I feel like florida has some good concepts i like that there needs to be 2 doors seperating the room from the rest of the house, i think fish and wildlife coming and cnecking everything is done right every so often is good, and i think a training requirement is good, but 1k hours per venomous group is kinda ridiculous id say at most a 100 per group but i think a 100 total would be fine. My one problem with requiring hours tho is you then have to find a mentor qnd lots of ppl dont like the idea of training someone where you have to not f up even from the start so if they had an option to where you could do your hours with a government employee whose job is to teach it so people can actually get the hours or maybe a list that fish and wildlife can get of people who will do mentorships and pricing for the class. Another big problem is i feel some of it could be addressed in a class like the medical response you need to have but 80%+ needs to be 1&1 time. That was long winded......sorry

[@mikeetmannski7921]

Great video. I agree.

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

Thanks for watching!

[@sandysgrandgirlssandysswee2492]

I totally, kinda agree! Lol , I think people in general don’t follow rules, so no venomous would be my opinion!

[@tabytarzan2323]

I think a one week course where you show that your responsible and know what your doing you should be aloud to keep them

[@ThePhantomgirl1]

I agree 100 percent!

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

:)

[@robinsonrom]

I'm curious about what percentage of venomous keepers end up killed/disabled by an animal they keep. I'd be interested in knowing how that compares with something like, for instance, motorcycle ownership. I think I'd need to know these kind of things to make a proper decision. But I think some kind of permit, even if fairly easy to obtain, should be enough.

[@omegazync1287]

Most states have a permit system, requiring a decent amount of time being spent with a mentor to get trained before you can get a permit, but I can catch copperheads, water moccasins and timber rattlers all day in my back yard and no body would ever know. Same goes for birds of prey: have to do an apprenticeship usually with a club, that club or mentor is responsible for deciding if you are motivated and capable of having such an animal, and then you have find a breeder willing to allow you buy one of their animals. most breeders will do an inspection of where plan on keeping the animal, make sure you have a place big enough to fly the animal for exercise etc. Anyway yes in states we have a permit system and to even qualify to get a permit you have to find someone willing to train you, and that training period is I believe 3 yrs or a certain amount hours. It is also illegal in my state to keep local wild life as pets, but that doesn't stop a good bit of people catching squirrels and raccoons and keeping them; they mostly just show them off at thanksgiving, get bit by them by new years, and release them. There is also a steep fine for this, and you might spend a few months to a yr or 2 in jail for violating those laws.

[@jayce_venom]

As a venomous snake keeper this is just a slippery slope that keeps slipping. Let the venomous community police itself and accept people or bully them out as we need to. Adding in legislation, permit work or otherwise is a road that gets stickier and sticker the more it's done. Florida for example has some of the most strict laws in regards to keeping venomous snakes here in the United States and they're now looking at losing that as well even though their laws were already as strict as they could really get. Legislators don't stop pushing until they ruin it all.

[@rachelstoltman7282]

I personally believe that people should only be able to own venomous reptiles for educational purposes. I feel as if the risk is just too great to take otherwise. Like, your "pet" could potentially kill you with a single bite

[@qaboos4]

I think instead of a blanket ban on venomous snakes it should be on Elapidae, viperidae, Dispholidus, Thelotornis, and Rabdophis

[@fireballbruno9158]

I agree with you 100% if you fuck up, your not just putting your life in risk but others too

[@motojabe1]

I do think that we need to have measures in place to ensure the safety of others. It would weed out those who just want one as a novelty. Its bad enough with other animals. I volunteer at a reptile sanctuary and we get so many surrenders every week.

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

agreed

[@lovelife4111]

I Love this and I agree. Under normal conditions without Covid-19, I would suggest be hands on training, under normal non-pandemic conditions of course.

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

100%

[@krissadventures]

We have a permit system in New York State, but it’s really dumb.

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

interesting

[@imnotagamer22]

You didn’t give a reason to why you think they should be legal with permits( like Florida). But imo, they’re a good educational tool and really unique when you can tell the difference of how things live out in the wild with different defensive mechanisms

[@JA-tu3iu]

The lady i bought my very first ball python from was breeding rattle snakes and had no permit or anything and was trying to sell me one of the babys, very interesting first experience.

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

wow!

[@freshboy3968]

Optimal Eminem pose thumbnail. Liked.

[@isaacrodriguez6081]

What’s crazy is here in Texas all you need is a 20$-40$ license anyone can get

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

yeah that's a bit too easy I think

[@Giga-cat-c6b]

I think they should be legal but their should be more restrictions, because I think in some places like California you can own a northern pacific rattlesnake without a permit so I think their should be more restrictions because many people get venomous snakes just to look cool. An online test is also risky as more people have access to the internet including the irresponsible people so it should at a test facility so it is easy to weed out the irresponsible people.

[@Kaizykat]

I wouldn't consider owning venomous reptiles with the exception of hognose snakes. But those are rear-fanged venomous and a bit of a special case. I agree with you completely. There should be some kind of permit and in a locked enclosure. The only downside of something like that is in the case of a fire, where time is not on your side, that it could potentially turn a little sideways. But that's an exceptional circumstance. I feel like we wouldn't be able to come to this happy medium in the US, considering how polarized absolutely _everything_ is these days. Like, you could say that the sky is blue and there'll be people arguing with you otherwise pretty much because they see your party as always wrong and therefore whatever you say is _wrong_ . We made wearing masks into a political statement rather than a health issue, so... This is on both sides. I am firmly to the Left and I'm occasionally like, "I agree with what they're saying, but they're on the Right..." but then I come around and realize that polarizing things isn't going to get us anywhere. If I agree with what they have to say on a topic, then that's that. We agree on this particular topic.

[@rickycubUK]

I know in the UK it is legal to keep venemous reptiles only if you have a DWA (Dangerous Wild Animal) License that has stict guidelines that have to be met and adhere to to keep that license and serious penalties if they are broken.

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

sounds like a solid system

[@theprincessofscratchingfor3701]

I agree 1,000,000% with everything you said in this video!!

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

thanks for watching :)

[@michaelcolbourn6719]

This made me look up UK law as I had no idea. And from what I could find (dont quote me on this), you do not need a licence to own a venomous reptile. However there is a specific list of venomous reptiles that are illegal. So as long as it isnt on that list, its OK to buy I think. However it seemed to be a pretty long list so I'm not sure what options you would have left!

[@nanoreefer1622]

WRONG! You need a Dangerous wild animal licence to keep any venomous other than certian species of colubrid such as hognose or mangrove snakes.

[@XJunixAnnexKayxScarX]

I don’t know if it’s true, but I have heard certain parts of the world require the owner to pay for a) the antivenin and b) notify nearest hospitals in their area about owning any venomous reptile and specifically which one so they can also have a supply should it ever get out and bite someone (possibly without the owners knowledge). I live with a licensed gun owner here in Ontario, and I know the precautions he has to take (he has all guns locked in the gun cabinet, ammunition is stored elsewhere, each gun in the cabinet has a locked trigger guard, and lastly the locations of both sets of keys are not known by anyone else in the house). I definitely think there should be some sort of licensing, probably more than just online, something you have to pay for, attend and renew periodically. Also, somewhat like legal firearms are all registered, same with venomous animals, have a registry of what animals and where for both inspection purposes and local hospitals to be aware of what sort of antivenin should be on hand. 🤷‍♀️

[@WickensWickedReptiles]

I agree with most of this but I do not like the idea of registration. Just like non-restricted firearms here in Ontario and all of Canada do not need to be registered, perhaps venomous snakes shouldn't be either because as we've learned all too well on May 1st this year, registration leads to confiscation.

[@KarinMichelle]

One time as a child I caught a cotton mouth hatchling. It played dead at first so thought it was dead picked it up and then it started moving around I had it about a week everytime id go to pick it up it open it’s mouth and freeze up I’d pick him up he be cool my dad came home from the lake seen what snake I had and.... he said he let it go but I’m pretty sure he killed it