Hi All, You may recognize my username. I have been asking various newbie questions for the past month or two. Well after all my research and great conversations with various breeders (Mike at high performance herps and Mike Wilbanks with Constrictors unlimited) I purchased my first baby male purple albino retic from Mike Wilbanks. Mike was great to work with and helped me decide on the subspecies and gender. He was so honestest and respectful, he even pointed out that unless I intend to breed (which I don't, I will leave that to the pros) that there was not point in purchasing a female dwarf purple albino (which I was leaning towards), and pointed out that a male purple albino would stay around the same size which was one of my main concerns in choosing my first retic. I received my male (named him Ra, not too original but...) about two weeks ago and could not be happier with what I see. He has an absolutely amazing temperament, I hold him religiously and will do so continuously as I do with my other snakes. He is the most inquisitive, alert, confident snakes I have ever owned. He is completely comfortable relaxing on the couch, he will relax on my chest or right by my side (to stay warm). I have heard they are cruzers but he has not problem relaxing.
I am posting this not to brag or encourage anyone who has not done their own extensive research. But I do want to encourage those who have. I felt like I had done the research I needed to make a well educated responsible decision for the snake and myself. But I still felt unsure. There are a ton of people out there with bad experiences, and some very good ones as well. I found myself holding him for the first time as if he were going to self destruct LOL, but it took no time to realize he was just the opposite as I stated above. I am very aware I am only scratching the surface of this snakes potential in many ways but I am confident now with the proper handling, respect, care, and caution that I will have a very attractive, tame, and LARGE snake!
SO, this is me saying thanks to EVERYONE how shared their info and experiences with me. As well as if you are looking into these amazing creatures do your homework, talk to breeders, handlers, and respect there power, size and demand. But don't be scared.. LOL.
P.S. sorry for the long post..
Thanks,
Ed
These are freaking awesome. I've only been keeping them for 8 or 9 months, but I've wanted them for years. Had to wait till I had my own house, rather than an apartment. 