In many ways, I agree with your two cents. Like I mentioned, I have problems with some keepers of large constrictors.

And, invasive "injurious species" are a huge area of concern for me. Red-eared sliders are wreaking havoc upon certain populations of turtles, mostly in the form of hybrids/intergrades. Domestic cats have a large, negative impact upon a variety of small animals. Hydrilla, kudzu, multiflora rose, purple loosestrife... These are all real, MULTI-STATE hazards, but the USGS is squandering its political capital on large constrictors. My personal opinion is that they are banking on the emotional response elicited by showing those potential range maps.

Your first sentence is key. I have little doubt that this is about other things. They are using this "injurious species" issue as a convenient tool to accomplish a goal that has failed in every other way that it has been tried. Call me a purist, but that really offends me. I am really, really tiring of the "ends justifying the means" type of mentality in lawmaking. Listen, I work for the government. I am involved in the enforcement of laws and regulations, and part of my job may involve proposing and implementing changes to those laws and regulations. People, hold us to a higher standard!

Vichris, I have been in the hobby for 25 years. I have kept and produced lizards, amphibians, colubrids, spotted pythons (the size of a corn snake), turtles, and tortoises. I have never had to fight any battles for the "big 9". I haven't concerned myself with their hobby in the slightest, up to and until now. While I think that this case may make it easier for them to link other herps to the Lacey Act as "injurious", due to legal precendent, I don't think you need to worry so much about being under the microscope. I don't necessarily buy the "they are coming for you next" line. Well, some may be. But, they would be regardless of the "big 9". Basically, I understand your frustration, but I don't think you should worry so much.

But, what do I know? Look how worked up I am. I didn't even want to comment on this issue. And, now I'm going to be late.

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