The arrival of 2025, the year of the Green Wood Snake according to the Chinese calendar, has given rise to a controversial trend in Russia, to say the least: give live snakes as gifts to celebrate the start of the new year. From Moscow to big cities, the demand for these reptiles is grew by 300%transforming the exotic animal market into a cultural phenomenon.
In China the snake is a symbol of wisdom, transformation and luck, values that Russians have welcomed with enthusiasm. Giving a snake as a gift, therefore, represents a wish for a prosperous future. Among the most requested species are the corn snake, the California milk snake and the royal python. The latter, considered the most prized, is among the favorites for its docile nature and fascinating appearance.
Prices vary greatly: in specialized stores, ball pythons can cost up to 35,000 rubles (around 370 euros), while corn snakes start at 10,000 rubles (97 euros). However, on the popular classifieds site Avito, you can find much cheaper offers, starting from 2,500 rubles (23 euros). Often, however, these opportunities hide pitfalls, such as specimens that are difficult to manage or without veterinary certifications.
We cannot treat them as objects
There is clearly a need for reflection on the topic. Giving a snake as a gift is not a choice to be taken lightly. The management of these reptiles requires attention and investments: a suitable terrarium, with heating, lighting and accessories, can cost up to 60,000 rubles (about 556 euros). Snakes also need special care and a safe environment, as they can easily run away through cracks in the terrarium.
Experts also warn of health risks. Snakes can transmit illnesses such as salmonellosis, and purchasing specimens without veterinary certificates can increase dangers to human health. Added to this is the fact that the natural habitat these animals are certainly not our homes.
Although the trend may seem unusual, therefore, it hides worrying implications. Many snakes end up in the hands of unprepared people, who often fail to guarantee them adequate living conditions. Plus the market boom fuels the risk of abandonment and abuseturning a symbol of luck into a curse for many animals. Giving a snake for fashion means treat a living being as an objectforgetting the respect and responsibility that every animal deserves.
