my first time

[krrc]

I really want to go see what I can find around the forests in my 45 min car ride area and I was wonding were to look and would buying snake hooks and such make any sence at this point? (I really wouldent mind getting bit by a small corn but I'm not Steve!)

P.S. I live in Illinois 1 hour away from chicago (south)

[Wu-Gwei]

Not a whole lot in the middle of winter. How about trying when the snow melts. :D

OK, kidding aside. I think that you should ask local herp groups where it is good to look for specific species. Do you know which species are native? I think a snake hook might not be necessary yet. Try finding them first and observe them before you buy something you might not need. Or else it will just be decoration. :)

Cheers,
JJ ;)

[krrc]

ya I guess i should of said I was thinking of going in spring :) Thanks

[Lisa]

you should only need hooks, tongs etc if you are planning on handling the snakes you find. Most snakes would probably be more interested in being left alone and as long as you're not trying to handle them they're more likely to leave you alone or slither away. best thing to bring imho is a decent camera.