JanBullock

You seem to be the defensive one. Texas rat snakes in particular are very aggressive, most would agree. Like you said in a previous post where you were describing getting bitten. Contradiction, sorry. Mostly if the other rats are docile ,as a whole,but like Moccasins, Texas rat will most def come at you ,and strike to bite. Even if hand raised. I think you love snakes and want to defend their nature...that's ok. I love them too, but have honest respect for any predatory species. We have to share space with all ,they belong here too.

Oh,wow...no just the way you just said studying,was not trying to offend at all. I'm in awe of the field actually. I tried for many years to convince people not to kill snakes, esp. rats,but only danger makes it plausible for rattlers. I have a dog rescue and horse foster so sometimes they get themselves in bad places like in my doorjamb between me and my baby. I couldnt let it get into the house on me ..sorry if you dont agree. We have bajillions here in Texas. I do tranfer them out if I can trap them safely. I got bit by a small one in a clump of weeds not even rattling yet...no mis-handling. But I do respect them ,you too:-)

Ashley,..do you hate the term herpitologist? There is a 90 yr old herpitologist who milks all kinds of snakes and he thinks it has made his immune system really strong...I agree. I got rattler bit a few years ago,just made me meaner. But we have to kill at least a few a month here. They rule.

This species has so many types ,and different looks but we have the Texas Rat here and they are super aggressive. They all mimic rattlers and hiss from the throat while shakin tail. The Trans pecos rat is docile and shiny,very fun to play with. I try to catch as many rat snakes as possible,to put in the barn. They are absolutely wicked ratters. My coral Corn snake is also in the rat fam.

Im surprised you are holding this one so easily, they are usually so aggressive and mimic rattlers so well. Is this one hand raised ?*jan in san marcos