Ah you see, I am biased in my choice. I don't like ATB's and would not spend a dime on something that I have no interest in. That wouldn't be fair to the animal. I have spent almost $3000.00 on an individual emerald (amazon basin) with no regrets or fear that it would drop dead with the slightest husbandry error. When I returned to herps after almost 20 years, I chose emeralds as my first arboreal. Price should never be an issue as a $50.00 snake should receive the same care as a $500.00 snake. It is all in your attitude and making sure you provide the right environmental needs. Arboreals generally require more initial expense to get set up properly than other species. My pet peeve is those folks who acquire the animal and then start asking questions about care. IMO, when you deal with ETB's, the first choice should be a well established CBB animal. Imports should be left to the more experienced who understand the risk involved and are willing to accept it. Yes you can kill a well established CBB animal, but you really have to work at it. Reputable breeders will be there to answer your questions after the sale.

If you don't understand where I'm coming from, ask Matt Lerer (The Cleaner). We both have a similar philosophy, although he does like ATB's! LOL

Craig