Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I am looking at some black pines is there much demand for them? I really like them but dont want to get into something I cant selll some of to offset their upkeep

There's always a market for quality animals... in lodingi pure black is generally thought of as most desirable, though a recent post here of a brownish hued animal suggest hardcore pituophis fans would like to see some variety; Just as occurs in nature. Remember that babies are generally patterned with dark "ghosting" if you will. In the ebb and flow of the reptile trade things that are in vogue seldom remain so. Years ago many breeders worked with lodingi, then abandoned the cause. They have large babies, from relatively small clutches of eggs. Hence in a purely financial sense they would not return a substantial profit in rapid fashion. Acquire them first and foremost because you like their looks and temperment. The rest will fall in place...

This is probably of no use to you what so ever, but there seems to be a bit of a surge of interest in black pines here in the UK at the moment. A few people are asking about them on the various forums, but they would appear to be very difficult to obtain.

Pits in generally seem to becoming slightly more popular now after a big absence, but are still rare even in reptile shops. People tend to go to known breeders for their pits here.

I've been breeding them for 15 years and have had no trouble selling them. Their price has also held pretty steady (I can't say the same for Honduran Milks or some of the other snakes that I work with).

Keep in mind that Black Pines do have relatively small clutches and take up more room than a sweaterbox as adults.

Tim

Third Eye

who wouldn't want a jet black snake?!?!?

Just my opinion....

Purchase and keep snakes based on the fact that you love them, or find them beautiful and interesting. Don't buy them based on their popularity, or re-sale value.

Black Pines are awesome animals.

J.Jacoby