February 4, 2012

Getting Big by Producing Small

Super Pastel Lesser Yellow Belly Het Ghost Ball Python

In this article Colin explores the wisdom behind trying to hit on very long odds. Does it make sense to focus on lower-end production or to swing for the designer morph fences?

Poop on the Shelves

Poop on the Shelves

In this post Colin discusses some of the deeper considerations when choosing a ball python project in which to invest.

Tell Me What It Takes

ballpython4leafclover300

What are the key characteristics/qualities of a successful ball python breeder? Some of them are under your control, some not so much. In this post Colin reflects on some of the characteristics of a successful breeder.

The Things You Own

handcuffs

“The things you own wind up owning you.” Famous words that ring loud in my ears as I confront the way I have been running my businesses over the past decade.

Satisfied Needs Don’t Motivate

Why do people buy certain snakes? Is it based solely on their price? Or are there other factors? In this blog post Colin discusses some of the reasons price is not most important.

Sweet Deals On Other People’s Problems

Are you buying adult or baby ball pythons for your collection? Take some time to consider the implications of the short-road to breeding success. You may be getting more trouble than it’s worth.

Reptile Showverload

The number of reptile shows has hat critical mass on the East Coast. In the article Colin explores the reasons why and offers some suggestions on how to react.

Breeder Loans and Other Terrible Partnering Ideas

Breeder Loans

Reptile breeder loans are an industry staple for some. This article explores why Colin Weaver thinks that they are not always a good idea and offers many things that need to be considered before doing a breeder loan.

Welcome to the World, Little Man

Bumble Bee Ball Python Hatching

A 3 second old ball python. I had my camera as this bumble bee ball python poked through its egg for the first time. Such a cool event to witness.

My Best Customer Is My Biggest Problem

As a ball python breeder I consistently find that I keep the very best of what I produce, even when I should be selling it. It’s a vicious cycle.

Paul McCartney Had It All Wrong!!!

Ivory Ball Python Copulating with Pastel Ivory Ball Python

Ivory Ball Python X Spider = Spider Yellow Belly

A few thoughts on adding the Yellow Belly gene to existing designer morphs. In 2008 I bred Ivory balls to Spider Balls to produce Spider Yellow Belly Ball Pythons. They represent one possible way to get to the next level, the Bumble Belly (Yellow Belly Bumble Bee). The Yellow Belly gene is powerful and has the potential to do some weird and unexpected things when combined with other color and pattern mutations.