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[Mel]

Well, for what's it's worth...I think it sucks *** as an idea.

I don't think they will be properly cared for in most cases, and I think they will be ridiculously overpriced, which will cause them to sit around in shops for way too long getting stressed and leaving them open to getting ill.

I have already been told of a certain pet store's intention (the store shall remain nameless) to take advantage of the fact that it's a niche market and not many people know a great deal about snakes. They intend to make the most of (i.e, take advantage of) newcomers lack of information, and sell hatchling Blackheads for around $1500-$2000, and other such 'not overly common' snakes for similarly inflated prices.

A fellow herp keeper and friend of mine who used to own a reputable aquarium up here is already looking for a store to rent. He is very confident the law will come through, and intends to start his own 'reptile only' pet store. They will be taken care of in his store (I hope anyway, as he is a long time keeper), but I'm not confident that will be the case elsewhere. I seriously doubt the majority of major chains and smaller stores will put up the cost of putting staff through reptile courses.

I'll be sticking to dealing only with people and breeders that I know and trust.

Mel x