"Back in the day" people were interested in locality animals as well as the unique aspects of the habitat where a specific snake was found. Snakes from different mountain ranges, roads and canyons were valued - even if they were the same species.



These days people are less serious about reptiles and learning about that natural history. Especially newcomers. They'd rather muse over idiotic thoughts like "What will I get if I cross a Boa with a Ball Python?"



It also has to do with supply and demand. After reptile shows proved that money could be made in the 90s, far too many reptile shows popped up. Snakes are relatively easy to produce and it doesn't take much to saturate the market.



There have also been Crested Gecko, Leopard Gecko and tortoise hobbyists that have entered the field and they have no interest in snakes. This may be a rumor, but I've heard there are even amphibian enthusiasts too.



I think the ease in making morphs has caused people to get "morph happy" and relentlessly pursue anything new. This can often be combined with the idea that some folks think they can make a living breeding colubrids (which is possible, but not easy).



The focus has definately shifted away from how cool specific animals are and how they may be uniquely suited to life in the wild to how to make a quick buck.



Tim

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