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handling wild western d'backs
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by Langaha on May 2, 2002
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I live in Missouri and plan on making a trip down to West Texas, possibly in the Pecos area, in early June. It is strictly a herp study trip, and my main target is the Western Diamondback. Of coarse I will generally be studying all of the herp fauna down there as well. I have never studied these large rattlers in the wild before, or any rattlsnake for that matter. Being such a dedicated studier of snakes, and always wanting to make the most of an experience, if I come across a snake I have to handle it. If it is a venomous snake, I use a 40 inch hook and I either tail the snake, or I pin it and do a hold behind the head. More often than not, I just hold on to its tail. Whatever I feel I can get away with at the time, without hurting myself, or just the same, the snake. I am use to handling Copperheads here in Missouri, however they don't get nearly as big as Crotalus Atrox. I think that tailing the snake would be the best way to handle a rattlesnake. I was just curious if there is anyone out there that has handled this snake and can give me some advice that I can bring with me to Texas. Thanks a lot.
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RE: handling wild western d'backs
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by JoeKaufmann on May 2, 2002
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Well, I had to amputate both my arms after bites from wester diamondbacks, so I usually just pick 'em up with my mouth.
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RE: handling wild western d'backs
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Anonymous post on May 2, 2002
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Hehe
Nice story, hehe
And, how did you wrote this?
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RE: handling wild western d'backs
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by Langaha on May 3, 2002
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Well I'm sorry Joe, if that really happened to you. Although anonymous brings up a good point. But maybe you had someone else type it for you. None the less, is there anyone out there that has successfully handled a Western Diamondback? I have heard so many negative stories, I am ready to hear some good ones, to give me confidence for when I go to Texas. I respect Crotalus Atrox, along with all venomous snakes, and I understand the implications of getten bitten. I also give my regards to anyone who's life has been turned around because of a bite. However, I have heard so many negative stories of encounters with this snake, that I feel like I'm dealing with the Black Mamba! Hopefully before my trip I will hear more positve stories. With my luck, I may not find one, in the 3 days I have anyway. Thanks ahead of time for any advice.
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RE: handling wild western d'backs
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by cottonmouth on May 3, 2002
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Tailing it would probably be the best idea, but make sure you have the hook about four to six inches behind his head and lift before you attempt to pick up his tail.The thing about WD is that they are so agressive that he might strike three to four times in a row, so be carefull.My brother and I just got back from Del Rio and Had much luck on Juno Road. Jeff Quarles va
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RE: handling wild western d'backs
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by Atroxkeeper on May 4, 2002
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I would reccomend tongs or the worst case a hook. No sense in getting your self in a situation where a bite can happen... Since this is a species you REALLY do not want to get bitten by. They can be fairly aggressive(understatement). I have had them litteraly chase me after releasing them(no they werent tring to escape in a direction behind me...). They are magnificent animals and generally seem to show off with posturing and such. I would use a good sized pair of tongs, because they will strike at the tongs when grabbed. Best bet... Find them, Take some Pictures, and leave them be. Good luck and be careful.
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RE: handling wild western d'backs
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by JoeKaufmann on May 4, 2002
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Thanks for being sensitive, but it was really a joke.I have never been bitten and have both my arms and hands intact. I've never handled western diamondbacks, so I can't give you any specific advice, but keep in mind that even though you've heard a lot of negative things about them, most people who handle them won't tell you any stories when nothing's gone wrong. Using your common sense should be enough to keep you safe.
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RE: handling wild western d'backs
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by biff on May 5, 2002
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In all seriousness, I'm a little worried you didn't realize the "armless guy" was pulling your leg. You should read the article about the guy who took a bite on the hand from a wdb...nasty pictures. Remember, that guy was fairly experienced. If your gonna go out & play with these snakes you run a real risk of getting tagged...your it. I would find them, photograph them, & leave them alone.
good luck & be careful,
Steve
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