How did retics get so popular?

[Bogertophis]

There's always some people who are attracted to what they perceive is the ultimate challenge to prove themselves to others- whether it's keeping the most "bully" breed of canine, or holding a snake that strikes fear into most everyone else, or driving the fastest car, or climbing mountains, or many other similar pursuits. Unfortunately, when the personal challenge involves a living animal with it's own (& instinctively wild) agenda, it doesn't always work out as anticipated- some things aren't so easy to live with, much less afford, & in time, many owners realize they made a mistake.

As long as people keep BUYING these things, others will keep cashing in by selling them, suitable pets or not. I think very few people are actually equipped to really care for these giant snakes- in terms of skills & experience, in terms of back-up help that's reliably available, in terms of financial investment for the life of the animal (including a place to live that's not subject to changing rental terms or changing local laws), in terms of the suitable space to securely keep them healthy (& not just coiled up forever in some lousy tub!), & the sincere commitment to stick with them for the long-haul life of the animal(s). The initial price of such a pet is only a tiny part of what is required, but it's nearly impossible to get that across to an enthusiastic buyer.