Rattlesnake

Question
THank you for your info so far.  What about keeping them in Arizona, is it legal here, or where would I find information on that.  But you would recommend using heat pad and lamp, and NOT removing the venom sac (I don't think I would, but may I ask why you suggest not to?).  Also, it is a baby, I am going to try to feed it a pinky, but i know sometimes snames won't eat those, what would you recommend if he doesn't? crickets?
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Followup To

Question -
I know you aren't a rattlesnake expert, but I was hoping you might be able to help anyways.  My roomate and I caught a rattlesnake in the mountains in Arizona.  We were wondering if it is even legal to keep rattlesnakes at pets, as I never see them for sale.  And then, since it is much warmer in the city than that mountains we got it, would we not use a heat lamp/pad? FYI I believe it is a mohave rattlesnake.  thank you for any info

Answer -
Hi There!
Very interesting question. But I do have an answer...ITS AGAINST THE LAW IN CALIFORNIA TO KEEP WILD ANIMALS IF YOU DON'T HAVE PERMITS, EVEN IF YOU PLAN TO RELEASE THEM.  Now I do know of a friend who personally keeps two rattlesnakes at his home.  One being a Mojave rattlesnake. No heating pad/lamp is provided but I would still provide them anyway since snakes regulate their own body temperatures in order to digest their food and stay healthy. He had their venom sacs removed to remove their poison. Although they can still inflict a painful bite.  But I do recommend against that.  They really belong in their natural environment.  Whatever you decide is up to you.  I would recommend obtaining a permit from your local Fish and Game Dept if you plan on keeping it.  Good luck and be careful!  :-)

Answer
Hello again...I assumed you lived in CA, sorry.  Arizona laws are a bit different.....
Native Venomous (not sure if Mojave is native or protected native): No permit is required, however other restrictions apply. You might want to contact Arizona Game and Fish Department for all the details
Protected Native Venomous: Permit required
Here is the contact info:
Arizona Game and Fish Department
Permits Coordinator
2221 W. Greenway Road
Phoenix, AZ 85023
***Also...I personally wouldn't have their venom sacs removed because it can be risky for the snake.  They can get infections. You would need to find a good Vet who specializes in reptiles.  But of course on the plus side they won't have any poison :-)  They won't eat crickets.  Try the pinky and if that doesn't work you can try frogs/toads.  They are known to eat those too. Yes..I would use a heat pad or lamp.  Hope this helps.