Ugh..thats a tough one, cuz its a trade through the mail. Personally, I would never do a trade through the mail unless I was friends with the person. To me, its just too risky on so many levels. Have you saved all "written" communication such as emails, texts and such? If the agreement is "written" somewhere, you may be able to take him to small claims if it doesn't get resolved. And whats the value of the snake you are supposed to get? If it was just a snake you were purchasing through Paypal, youd be ok, cuz theyd help you get your money back. But this is a trade....whole different situation. Id (politely as you can) give him a deadline ultimatum. Tell him if the animal promised does not arrive at your door by a certain date, you are taking the situation further, and WILL be reporting him negatively on the BOI. That's what Id do. Hope you get it all sorted out.