While I agree that owning reptiles and amphibians does encourage people to become knowledgeable about them, and therefore make the public more aware, overall these shows are not for this purpose. These expos are a chance for breeders to sell there stock and make money. Laws must still be obeyed, and this is not the first time this particular show has had issues with following regulations set by the DNR. If these expos were aimed at educating the public, they would do so properly, and would not need to push the law. First, you would see more conservation organizations being supported. At a recent east coast show, where thousands of people atended, when all the non-profit conservation oragnizations came together and combined donations for the 2 day event, it averaged out to be about .06 cents a person donation.That is sad, considering these non-profits were helping species of reptile all over the world.
Second, it would be nice to see vendors selling appropriate animals to appropriate buyers. For example, I have witnessed a 15 year old purchase a cobra in Hamburg, and have also witnessed vendors selling burmese pythons to beginner reptile owners, and telling them that they only grow to the size of their cage. I know their are good vendors out there, I now many myself. However, many are just out for the money. This does not even take into account the sale of wild caught species, which should not be sold anyway.
I am a firm believer that reptiles are huge learning oppertunities, but we must do the right thing, and follow the laws in order to keep our hobby alive.

J

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