The massive variety of species, morphs - therefore the multitudinous options for housing, husbandry, feeding, temperament, size, handling, ease of acquiring them...makes snakes ideal pets. And the icing on the cake is the Herp community, which I have found to be very helpful and kind. Oh, add on owner age-range. My 12 year old second cousin cares for her rescued corn almost entirely on her own (parents oversee), including working odd jobs/chores to afford its needs. I'm 53 and been in the hobby appx 2 years. And I know an 82 year old man confined to a wheelchair who can still care for his beloved BP.