An Analysis of the Price Trends of the Big-Eyed Ratsnake and the Main Influencing Factors

The big-eyed ratsnake is a common large non-venomous snake, commonly known as the black snake or black wind snake, and it is distributed across farmlands, hills, forest edges and waterside areas in most provinces of China. Its dried whole body is the source of the traditional Chinese medicinal material known as big-eyed ratsnake, often used for dispelling wind and dredging collaterals, and so the market sees both live trading and the circulation of dried medicinal material, which has also driven the development of the artificial breeding industry.

The price of the big-eyed ratsnake is not fixed and is generally affected by size grade, source and quality. Individuals that are heavier, intact in body form and in good condition usually fetch higher quotes, and there is also an obvious price gap between artificially bred live specimens and dried medicinal material. In addition, differences in place of origin, seasonal changes and the relationship between supply and demand all cause market fluctuations, and the actual transaction price must be based on real-time quotes from local medicinal material markets or breeding farms.

Special attention should be paid to the fact that the big-eyed ratsnake is a protected terrestrial wild animal, catching wild individuals is subject to legal restrictions, and engaging in breeding and commercial utilization requires the relevant permits. When purchasing, legal channels with complete licenses should be chosen and the relevant certificates requested, so as to avoid legal risks arising from an unclear source.

When selecting dried medicinal material, attention can be paid to whether the strips are intact, whether the color is normal, and whether the degree of drying is adequate, and a professional should be asked to assist with identification if necessary. Because market prices change quickly with market conditions, it is advisable to consult and compare multiple sources and purchase rationally according to one's own needs, and not to blindly follow the trend and stockpile.