So, I currently have rather a lot of ball pythons, and not looking to get another snake anytime soon, but eventually would like to own one of the larger black species. I've been fascinated by Indigos since I read about them in Ranger Rick when I was six or seven. Also used to catch quite a lot of Black Rats, Eastern Kings, and Black Racers growing up in the Appalachian mountains.

From what I understand, Eastern Indigos require permits to keep due to their threatened status in the wild, whereas other species do not, and some get larger than others.

I'd like a big gorgeous shiny black snake that's easy to handle. The banded kings and stuff are pretty in their own right, but I really like the solid black.

So...what are the various species I should be researching? What can I expect for adult sizes, and what would be the approximate price ranges from a reputable breeder?