10 things newbies need to know.

[Linds]

I don't think you can say any one herp is the best first herp. There are a multitude of reptiles out there that match a corns hardiness, manageability, and often have better temperaments. Not everyone likes corns, and it can actually be injurious so recommend them in an end-all be-all manner. You don't want someone to be stuck with something they don't like simply because they are under the belief it is the best thing for them to start with, neither party wins in that situation.

[BoidKeeper]

In my not so humble opinion I believe that a corn snake fits all the criteria that is important to consider when wanting to get a first pet reptile. They don't have to like it for it to be the best first herp. I might like Hondas but that does mean they are the best choice for me if I've never been on a motor bike before.
Are there other snakes that meet that same criteria to varying, degrees sure. However, in my opinion none equal the corn as best first choice for a first time herp keeper.
So, yes I guess I can say it.
Cheers,
Trevor

[Big Mike]

#27

Get a good thermometer and measure the temperature on the floor of the enclosure (for terrestrial snakes). Just having a thermometer stuck on the side of a tank is not good enough.

[crazyboy]

make sure you control youre heating device with either a thermostat or a dimmer.

Tanks don't always make the best enclosure.

[Cruciform]

#257 If your herp has a strong feeding response, never handle it in the nude.

[Matt.B]

lol
especially if you are a exited man!
Matt