I'm glad you posted this thread. I've recently added to my reptile collection EXPONENTIALLY. For two years I had just 2 smaller snakes - 1 ratsnake 1 western hognose. Then almost overnight (between August to November 2009) I am at almost 20.

I haven't had this many snakes since I was just out of high school. And boys were easy to come by back then, so I didn't worry if snakes would creep a guy out. Now I'm in my 30s, dating and thinking I'll get passed on by guys if they hear I have this many snakes. So I don't advertise it!

Now my motorcycle habit, I am not afraid to share. I think the difference is this: if I own one or two motorcycles that's fine. Its that I own a couple dozen snakes and it seems a bit of a compulsive/obsessive habit. And those things generally are a red flag. Does anyone think similarly? I know its a tough crowd to get an unbiased response.

The tactics that I use to convince myself its okay - its like tattoos - have you ever met someone with just one? Sure, but the ones with multiple tats outnumber those with just one. Snakes are similarly "appreciated." And, if I can keep up on their care to keep them well fed and always have clean cages and fresh water, then I'm not in over my head.