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Rule of thumb for outgrowing hook?
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by KINGRIUS on June 30, 2005
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All my snakes are really growing fast this summer. I expect that by the end of fall I might need to start tailing the venomous for extra support. As my venomous collection is relatively new, I have no experience with tailing them. I have searched through the articles on this site and through previous posts but I haven't found any info specifically pertaining to this subject. I am hoping at some point to get some lessons in person from an experienced venomous keeper, perhaps Marty Snipes if he's willing to teach, in the future. I am wondering if there is some kind of a rule of thumb for when a snake becomes too heavy to be supported only by a hook.
Any advice appreciated.
Darius
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RE: Rule of thumb for outgrowing hook?
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by Crotalus_Catcher on June 30, 2005
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I assume it's your Cottonmouth that is growing too large or maybe your Copperhead, but my advice would be to get a second hook. Using two will give them the support they need. Tailing is risky whether you're experianced or not. Good luck.
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RE: Rule of thumb for outgrowing hook?
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by LarryDFishel on June 30, 2005
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The first rule of thumb is that if the only problem is weight then the next step is two hooks. Go to tailing only if this doesn't work (some snakes are too slippery (literally) or uncooperative).
Snake Getters has some good info on handling technique:
http://www.snakegetters.com/
You're right though that it would be even better if you can get some hands on training before you start tailing.
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RE: Rule of thumb for outgrowing hook?
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by KINGRIUS on June 30, 2005
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A couple of weeks ago the copperhead fell off the hook, luckily he was right over his enclosure. It scared the heck out of both he and me. The cottonmouth too is becoming less cooperative on the hook. I'll definitely start using the two hook method. Thanks for the pointers guys!
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RE: Rule of thumb for outgrowing hook?
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by LarryDFishel on June 30, 2005
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Hopefully these snakes will become more cooperative when they are supported better. Not all do though.
I should point out another "rule of thumb" here: I generally try to avoid tailing any snake that is LESS THAN 5 feet. It just puts your hand too close to the sharp bits. Subconsciously, holding any snake by the tail looks like the same distance from the head, but it's not and a 3 foot snake can cover its own length in less time that a 5 footer can.
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RE: Rule of thumb for outgrowing hook?
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by KINGRIUS on June 30, 2005
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Okay thats what I was hunting for- rules of thumbs. Because I would prefer to keep my thumbs out of harm's way. I expect with the two hook method they will calm down.
Thanks again
Darius
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