Catching Nerodia (am I going to die?)

[lokai99]

I have watersnake on the brain thanks to some beautiful pics shared on here. Well, that led to some research on funnel traps and visions of beautiful red bellied, banded... you get the idea. Has anyone ever caught one using a baited funnel trap? I'm cautious and eager to hear some feedback. I live in Alabama and i'm not wishing to catch a moccasin..I have seen red bellieds where i'd like to set this trap.
Next question...is CB a likely option? I'd rather have a captive bred for all the same reasons anyone else chooses captive...parasites, population impact, and I have never attempted to keep a wild caught snake, although I have handled many and find them to be gentle once they figure out i'm not causing them physical pain or attempting to make a meal of them.

[bsol]

Where do you live?

I like to snake hunt so trapping isnt my deal...
I have a baby northern watersnake who's, excuse my french, the poop. Super interactive.

[lokai99]

I live in a the tiny little city of Troy here in AL. I think I have decided against my dreams of watersnakes. I have been hearing alot of warnings about fragility, fungal infections and difficulty in keeping them healthy in captivity. I'd be interested in hearing some feedback about keeping your little northern. The bandeds, are really beautiful.

[bsol]

I've never had any issues with any of the water snakes I've housed. They always eat great, not picky, and done well. I think they are fun and some are very vibrant in color.
In the south, the diamondback water snake its beautiful. Awesome greys and some have the red/pink eyes. I know Shannon has a few Northerns that are super red that look amazing.

[guidofatherof5]

I've got 5 water snakes(2-Northern, 3-Hypo Florida Banded) They are young but doing well. No trouble at all.

[infernalis]

Had one now for years, he's doing great.

No more difficult to keep than a garter snake.

[lokai99]

what are you all feeding, anyone switched a wild caught over to mice?

[infernalis]

what are you all feeding, anyone switched a wild caught over to mice?

yep, mine eats rodents all the time. Used to eat fish, but I have him "converted"

[lokai99]

you're giving me hope here

[infernalis]

from my experience, they are an easy keep.