If he hadn't been easy to handle, I wouldn't have bought him.

I've got one that is less than enthusiastic about being handled (a Biak, of course), but since acquiring her I have selected my others based on temperament. When I show people how easily they handle they're always amazed. With that one exception, my greens give me less grief than some of my ball pythons. Captive bred mainland types seem to be better adjusted, and even though the price goes up, I think it's wise to wait until they are at least a year old before buying them. It gives them a chance to mature and feel more secure, and me a chance to get a glimpse into what their adult personalities will be.

So many people out there are picking chondros for their appearance, looking for unusual and striking colors and patterns. In my opinion, though, there is no such thing as an ugly chondro, so I'll always pick them based first on temperament, then on appearance.