Interested in DWA

[BarryScott]

Hi guys. I've just joined, and a major reason for joining the forum was to gleam info from you experienced guys with DWAs, snakes in particular.

I have a special interest in venomous snakes, and have kept non-venomous ones in the past.

I won't be running out to order a mamba or krait today though, I just want to introduce myself so you don't wonder who I am when I start pestering everyone for the minutest detail of their experiences

[Moshpitviper]

Yo! welcome to the forums. plenty of knowledgable people on here.... even Habu... and he is american.

[lee-travis]

yeah if you have any questions you want to ask then feel free.

[fangsy]

I have Crocodilian experince with DWA, feel free to ask ....

Steve

[BarryScott]

Thanks guys. I guess I'll read all the threads and collate some questions, but firstly:

1) Is there a suggested book for keeping DWA, or specific DWA species? I'd like to increase my library

2) The plan is to move away from this cursed city back to the country where people are nice and there's space to move - and set up an outhouse for my collection, but just so I know - are you far less likely to be awarded a DWA in a London flat than a country home?

3) Is there a postcode lottery with DWA? Are some councils strongly against it? If so - this would certainly affect my choices of new location.

4) Is there any way of gaining experience with hots before obtaining one? There's a small chance I can cover someone at London zoo for a bit. For now I'll start getting used to hooks even for non-venoms.

cheers guys

[SiUK]

some councils are strongly against it yes, and some charge alot of money for the license, they cant refuse but what they can do is put unworkable conditions on it, you need a room thats not in the living area which is completely sealed, some councils insist on double doors. but your best bet is ringing the local council and seeing, if you dont own the property you will need permission from the people that do.

Pete Blake at the reptile zone in Bristol runs a course which you could do and I believe a shop called Amey zoo might do one as well, dont quote me on it though, either that or you could try finding someone in your area that keeps already thats prepared to mentor you.

As for books a couple I would recomend are Venomous snakes in captivity by B.W Smith, it discusses aspects of safety, housing, handling ect.. also venomous snakes in the terranium is a good book as well but this ones geared more towards the actual husbandry of the snake.