Posted by:
THAsia
at Sat Aug 16 16:09:17 2008 [ Email Message ] [ Show All Posts by THAsia ]
You are making quite a few assumptions about stamp collectors. I understand your points but there is also a lot of opinion and assumption mixed in there. I'm sure not all collectors are inheriting their collection or hanging on to it and not trading (or selling) various stamps to improve their collection. I do not agree that this would be a dealer or a "stamp rancher" 
Not all hobbies can be just left for months as you say. Some people probably are not even trying to breed their animals but if they discover eggs, they will incubate, and yes possibly even sell! I don't think people should have to give away something that they own, just to fit into your definition/opinion of a hobbyist.
Most of the major collections of rare chelonian species of are in private hands, not in zoos. If you look at studbooks or attend a TSA meeting you will find that private keepers are an important aspect of keeping many species alive in captivity. The facts are these:
(1) Keepers of rare important bloodlines are not going to give away their hatchlings. That is just the way it is. I wish someone would give me their hatchling Cuora aurocapitata so they can be "true" hobbyists but in reality that will never happen. You might find some who will give to friends or put some out on breeding loan but most sell their surplus.
(2) The federal government is the source of the "hobbyist" exemption. Our own government is saying there is a such thing as trading and selling between hobbyists. So if you are saying there is no such thing as "hobbyist" breeders, obviously the government disagrees.
Having said all of that, I went back and looked at the classifieds, and you are right it does appear that the bulk of the ads are commercial.
- Mike
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RE: IL Press: Trial begins for turtle se - THAsia, Sat Aug 16 16:09:17 2008