Retail reptiles shed negative image in year of the snake(4)

A cat observes a gecko at a resident's home in Beijing.(TAO CHONGLAN/FOR CHINA DAILY)

Juvenile attractions

The consumer demographic is also evolving, with an increasing number of younger reptile pet owners. Students and college graduates are driving this trend, Bi said.

"Today's younger generation values personal experiences, and reptiles provide a fascinating connection to nature. They satisfy human curiosity for the wild while also offering emotional support," he said.

Bi has also noticed a growing number of investors turning their passion for reptiles into a side business.

He hopes for greater public understanding of his industry, believing that increased awareness can foster a deeper appreciation for both flora and fauna, ultimately contributing to wildlife conservation.

However, experts cautioned that consumers should find out whether the trade of a particular exotic pet is permitted, and avoid impulse purchases. This will help ensure that pets are not later abandoned.

Relevant authorities should strengthen management of where the animals are sourced, enhance quarantine supervision and law enforcement, and publicly disclose and regularly update the list of prohibited exotic pet species, they said.

In addition, an owner should be fully aware of the correct methods of caring for an exotic pet before taking it home.

Sun Quanhui, a senior scientific adviser with World Animal Protection, said once a decision is made to keep a pet, the owner must treat the animal well and respect its life. They should also be fully prepared to take on the responsibility of pet ownership, and never carelessly abandon a pet, as ecological problems might arise, such as species invasion.