"Because of their resemblance to albino hondurensis, and to put to rest any questions future breeders might have, i asked my friend Helmut Hansen in Switzerland to investigate the origin of the albino polyzona. It was during this query that he discovered that in 1990 the Hortenbachs decided to thin out their collection and sold some of their 'normal' (i.e., non-albino) hondurensis to a friend. Unbeknowst to them, these snakes were taken to a prominent reptile dealer in the former West Germany. Rumor has it that the snakes were sold as polyzona because some of the specimens had a broken snout ring (a character which occurs both in hondurensis and poloyzona) and because polyzona is a rarer taxon in Europe and commands a higher price. Although this information must have dealt a severe blow to the aspirations of being the first to breed albino polyzona in this country, Brian Barczyk, the gentleman that he is, graciously accepted our findings and in a sense was glad that any speculation regarding the origin of the 'polyzona' was put to rest."





Terry,



There is a problem with the credibility of Helmut Hansen as the source of verification on the Hortenbach colony history. At the time the article was written, I have no doubt that Louis Porras believed that Helmut was a trustworthy individual. I had contact with Helmut prior to 1994 (he was a customer) that was one of the very few times I have experienced in the business that was less than favorable. I believe that Louis later found that work with Helmut was not ideal, but you would have to confirm that with Louis.



I do contend after it is all said and done that at the time (1994) the "industry" wanted the albino strain to be Honduran Milk Snakes, therefore they are Honduran Milk Snakes.



Steve Osborne

PROFESSIONAL BREEDERS

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