|
1-4 of 4 messages
|
Page 1 of 1
|
|
RE: pygmy rattlesnake
|
Reply
|
|
by herpboy on February 6, 2007
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Daniel, to be completely honest the question you have stated is very broad. First off, you should ask yourself exactly why you are wanting to know about the possibility of a pygmy bite through welders gloves. For example: are you planning on handling the pygmy while wearing the gloves? Or are you asking simply as a safety precaution to wear the gloves while feeding, cleaning, etc... If you are planning on handling the pygmy with the gloves only, I would strongly reccomend that you dont. If you were to do something like this, it would not be a matter of if the gloves could withstand a bite, yet the issue would be only a matter of time. It is just not a wise decision. Sistrurus may be small, but they have some of the most amazing strike abilities I have ever seen. In other words, they are kind of "jumpy" at times, and given the right conditions and opportunities especially if you free handle one, a bite could be a painful reminder. As far as the other possible meaning of your question, (just wearing the gloves for cleaning etc..) sure you could wear them as an extra safety precaution. But it may have a reverse effect of what you are expecting. Welders gloves tend to be bulky and stiff, which makes quick movement of the hands tough. You never know when you will need to be quick to move a hand. In the end, it comes down to the keepers smart judgments. However, this is my opinion/advice for you. Take it how you like, but just use common sense.
Good luck, and be safe with those little pygies
Bryan Hudson
|
| |
|
RE: pygmy rattlesnake
|
Reply
|
|
by sarecho7280 on February 6, 2007
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
1) they could but it's not likely. they can still bite your bare arm though
2) if you're scared enough to wear gloves then you shouldn't have a venomous snake to begin with. some fear is great because it keeps you in line but that much fear means you should get another hobby.
|
| |
|
RE: pygmy rattlesnake
|
Reply
|
|
by kacz on February 7, 2007
|
Mail this to a friend!
|
Dan, welder’s gloves are designed to keep transient hot objects from burning the hand and forearm. They are not designed to keep hypodermic-like snake fangs from penetrating. While they might reduce the depth of penetration from a bite there is no guarantee as to how much reduction will be afforded. If the fangs do make it through for any reason, it’s gonna hurt. I also agree that they are clumsy and a bad practice on which a person can come to rely – until proven wrong! They are not a reasonable substitute for safe distance.
Little snakes are put into little cages, and often placed in little spaces that restrict the handler’s movements. This is not a good idea. Make sure that you have plenty of elbowroom when you are working with any dangerous snake. The last thing you want is some obstruction limiting your ability to maneuver or get out of the way. Little vipers like pygmies can be feisty and fast so you are better served by learning good handling techniques that allow for the most effective precaution – distance. Rather than trying to get up close and personal, give yourself plenty of room to move.
Of course I'm reading a lot into your question. If all you wanted to know was if it was possible, then I honestly don't know! They may fail to penetrate 1000 times and on the 1001st try soak the inside of the glove.
Paul M. Kaczmarczik
|
| |
|
Email Subscription
You are not subscribed to this topic.
Subscribe!
My Subscriptions
Subscriptions Help
Check our help page for help using
, or send questions, comments, or suggestions to the
Manager.
|
