Eastern WA State Burm breeders?

[rocknhorse76]

Does anyone know of any Burm breeders in Eastern WA? I really want to get a male Burmese, but may be moving back to my hometown in Eastern (technically Central) WA soon. Worst case, I can also drive over to the west side if necessary. I'd be looking for a normal or albino male....don't want a huge female lol.

[rocknhorse76]

Nobody?

[Diamond Serpents]

I'd be looking for a normal or albino male....don't want a huge female lol.

This is a big snake male or female... What are you planning to house this thing in when its grown. A male averages at 11-15 feet how is that not big to you? Expect it to be at least at 7-10 feet by a year old. From what your saying a 17 foot female is to big for you but a 15 foot male wouldn't be? Do you have any experience with large snakes?

I think you should think this over its a huge responsibility.

[Willie76]

Yes, research has to be done and knowing Burms (even males) will get very large and can live 20+ years, one needs the proper stability and the resources (enclosures, access to vets, etc) to take one on and see them through their entire life cycle. Nothing worse than to see all the 6+ footers that are being dumped on CL because they didn't do their research.

With that being said, we all started somewhere with the Giants. While Burms and Retics have unique requirements, it's been through our experience with other species, we've come to appreciate and respect these wonderful animals. Like any other pet, for the most part...they are what you make of them. If the only interaction you have with them is to keep them locked up and feed them, you're going to have an un-trusting animal. But if you dig deep and practice unwavering patience, understanding, and make it a point to interact with them on a near daily basis...99.9% of the time you'll get a placid wonderful animal that will trust you. But don't take their docile nature for granted. Respect the potential of any big animal in every encounter and practice safe handling.

I myself am just getting into the Giants and the ride has well been worth it. I am no expert and have to lean on a few others with some "silly" questions once in a while, but they have been more than happy to take the time to pass along what they have learned to others. I curently have a male White Phase Retic and recently added a new male Albino Burm to my collection. My Retic has been a sweetheart from day one, but my Burm hatchling is a scared, bitey baby. My hands are starting to look like pin cushions! But I know with each calm handling session and as time passes...he'll learn to trust. And if he doesn't and is just an ass his whole life...I am prepared for that and he'll still have his forever home. Not likely, but it may happen.

If it wasn't for the cautious but encouraging prompts from others I may not have been able to enjoy the Giants the way one can when owning one. But due diligence has to be practiced. Do the research and understand their requirements from hatchling to adulthood. If you can't provide that security for your animal through their full life cycle, pass. If you're scared of a few tags, pass. If you're just looking to get one for the "cool" factor, pass. But if after looking at all the facts you feel you can provide unconditionally...I say go ahead. The only way you're going to truly learn is to embark on your own adventure of owning one (or more).

Good luck!

[Mattox]

Seattle expo in october.