Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I was wondering how everyone does it? I have recently decided to try breeding Ball Pythons. I have always enjoyed snakes so why not. I am trying to buy hets to start out with. But when I start asking question about people's snakes they get offended. I don't want to offend anyone. In fact I look up to many of the people who have been herp lovers for many years. How do you respectfuly check the source. What should I look for when presented with certificates. Anyone have the same issues?

I have only bought hets from a few people who have been in the business a long time and have great reputations. I have known all of them for at least 10 years or more and trust them.

It is unfortunate for the newer breeders who might have just as good of quality as the "old timers", but with hets I have to go for the "tried and true" breeders who I KNOW I can trust. But I would consider buying visual morphs from a newer breeder, although I would probably quarantine even longer than I already do.

Other than that, I guess personal recommendations from others and checking the BOI before purchase is your safest bet.

Any way you look at it het are just that possible hets. I am looking forward to raising my own morphs. Thnaks

There are a lot of smaller breeders that go the extra mile to promote themselves and gain your confidence and won't be offended by your questions about hets. Ask for a photo ID card, some even micro chip their hets, it protects you and them. We do both.

richard@cbballpythons.com

It is good to see that some people are willing to take steps to help legitimize the hets being sold. They definitely have value but nobody wants to care for a 100% het for three years to find out they are normal. At least I don't.
My hope is that when snakes are being bought and sold that people will not get offended when you ask them for ID and references. Instead I hope that it becomes as normal as a handshake.

"My hope is that when snakes are being bought and sold that people will not get offended when you ask them for ID and references."

They shouldn't... It's standard practice!

"Instead I hope that it becomes as normal as a handshake."

Don't be fooled...It is!

Anyone gets offended... "here's your sign"

Unfortunately, you can still get ripped off. I did! Bought a 100% het albino female. She didn't proveout... two years in a row. I have a signed photo ID, just can't find the person now.... isn't around anymore. See... anyone can offer you a photo ID, micro chipping, even posting the animal on their website (like we do) as a way to verify the animal. Even those that are out to rip you off. So you see...the persons reputation is all they really have. You need to find out as much about this person in order to build trust. If you ask for references and they aren't willing to provide it or a good explaination (like we're new and haven't had a lot of customers) then it's going to be difficult to develop trust in that person. Find someone else who you can!

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Larry Walker

WebSite

Larry - I like your verification page, what a good idea. Your site is the first that I have seen with that information. Where did you get the idea? Do any of the buyers have issues with you posting their names?

TIA,
Jennifer

There are a few breeders that will go the extra mile to help you out. I have to say Rich above me here, he's one of them.
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Cheers!
• Chelsea Lynn Gardiner
(and Frank M. Wood)

Thank you Chelsea and Frank. Is your new spider eating ok?

Rich
Chesapeake Bay Ball Pythons