Many people THINK they want a giant constrictor. Few are prepared for the daily demands of life with a snake which weighs more than they do. As a result, animal shelters and reptile rescues frequently have adult and subadult Burmese Pythons available for adoption. If you have some experience with reptiles (especially large snakes), you may want to take in an unwanted large Burm. Otherwise, you may want to think twice. A rescue Burm may have been neglected or mistreated: it may have health issues and may be more unpredictable than a Burm you have raised since it was small.
When seeking a breeder, you have many options available. For the most part, you will do best to stay away from pet stores. While there are some pet stores which take great care of their animals (and even a few which specialize in reptiles), there are many more which keep their animals in unhealthy, unsanitary conditions. If you see several snakes thrown together in a cage with inadequate heating and filthy substrate, run away. (Don't fall prey to the urge to "save" a snake you see in these sad conditions: as a beginner you'll soon find yourself over your head, and in any event you're just subsidizing an abusive breeder.)
An invaluable resource for those looking to buy a Burm (or any other reptile) is the Fauna Classifieds Board of Inquiry. Like any other forum, discussions sometimes get sidetracked into personal issues and flame wars. Still, this is a great place to find out more about the reputation and history of the person with whom you wish to do business. You can also learn more about the Burmese Python market (and get invaluable expert advice on caring for your Burm) at various forums dedicated to large constrictors. Bob Clark, who first brought the albino Burmese Python to market in 1987, offers excellent forums: while Bob only participates rarely, many other advanced keepers and breeders are regular contributors, including Jim "Bebo" Mason, Sam Bearden, and Dr. Jay Owens. You can also find excellent forums on kingsnake.com, as well as many breeders selling Burmese Pythons (and other snakes) great and small.
You may want to attend a reptile exhibition in your area and purchase your snake there. A reptile exhibition will allow you to view your prospective Burmese Python (and the many different varieties thereof) up close and personal: you will be able to get a look at its general health, disposition and well-being before you decide to buy. Avoid any snakes with mucous or caked on discharge around the nostrils (signs of a respiratory infection). Be especially alert for "stargazing" - a tendency to hold its head in an awkward sky-facing position - and difficulty in moving or in righting itself when rolled on its belly. These can be signs of Inclusion Body Disease (IBD), a fatal and highly contagious virus which can wipe out your entire collection if you bring it into your house. If you have never actually had the chance to handle a full-grown Burm, this may also give you an opportunity to do so - and decide if you are really up to the task of keeping these gentle giants.
©2008 Kenaz Filan. All rights reserved