I just read the albino prices thread. Many good points here, especially from Chris ( viridisnakes ). My $0.02, FWIW:

I have never read on a forum, the concept that a ball python does not have to sell for thousands for someone to make money. In fairness, I have no right to make this arguement since I am expecting my first clutch/es this year. BUT, I have been a hobbiest off and on for the last 17 years ( also stayed at a Holiday Inn Express last night ), furthermore, it is a numbers game. Let me play the devil's advocate here. Even if hets come down to $200 a pop one could still make a few bucks. If albinos sell for $1,000 there will be more buyers than those that can afford a $10,000 snake or a $5,000. IMO, at the current market rate of $1,500 - $2,000 for a hatchling albino, there will be more stages to the correction than a flat drop to the bottom. Everyone's comfort zone is different and their perception of a proper return will vary. People that purchase these snakes do so with the intent to make money in the future. This has fed the market more than anything and helped morphs maintain whatever price tag they hold. Yes, I still feel albinos are a good investment. If I purchased one, I would want a het to go with him/her if I could not afford an albino pair. I do not own an albino and will consider one this summer.


ONE MORE POINT I WOULD LIKE TO MAKE -

Like many herpers I ponder the possibility of a market crash from time to time. There is another side to this that is rarely brought up. As far as investments, most any advisor would suggest diversification. Do not put all of your eggs into one basket. I never here others talking about the aquisition of other snakes to fill the pie chart. I have decided to pursue carpets. Last year I picked up a female IJ and waiting on her boyfriend to be shipped next week. I paid more than most may have been willing, but the pair is of exceptional bloodline ( and worth it to me ). The total spent for the pair will come to $815. Hatchlings should go for approximately $200 each as an average. A typical clutch size of eight eggs ( 6 - 12 ), keep a pair, sell the rest, $1,200 and you have made back your return and managed to keep a pair. Not big money, but overtime a few clutches like this can be quite profitable.

I love my pythons. I also know that if it were not for the ability to sell the offspring I would not be able to keep a decent sized collection. For me, I want them to pay for themselves and make a profit. I plan to use the extra cash to fund future investments not related to herping. This is part of a long-term project that will enable me to continue a hobby that I have been passionate about since a young teenager. The best part about it, I am passing on the dream to my six year old daughter. She loves to help!

Best of luck to everyone this season.

Todd G.
Ramblin' on since it's late and I am bored - LOL!

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