In Beijing, a young man named Qi Weihao has recently added a striking, blue Indonesian pit viper to his family. This purchase came just two days after the release of *Zootopia 2*, a film that features a new character named Gary De’Snake, inspired by the very serpent Qi now owns.
Qi, 21, has always loved reptiles and decided to get the snake after being moved by Gary’s upbeat character. “*Zootopia 2* is reshaping how people view reptiles. They’re not odd; Gary shows their positive side,” he shared.
This film is making waves in China, grossing over 3.55 billion yuan (around $503 million) so far. That makes it the highest-grossing foreign animated film there, besting its predecessor. Globally, it has crossed $1 billion in earnings, as reported by Box Office Mojo.
In the film, Gary seeks to change the negative perceptions of reptiles, assisted by popular characters Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde, who were also featured in the first *Zootopia* movie.
In China, reptile ownership has become a trend, especially among the younger generation. A recent report shows that over 17 million people in China own exotic pets, with snakes accounting for more than 50% of these pets. By 2024, the market is expected to reach nearly 10 billion yuan (about $1.4 billion). Most owners are from Gen Z, indicating a cultural shift towards unconventional pets.
However, Qi understands the risks of owning a venomous snake. He warns potential new owners to think carefully and ensure they have experience and the right equipment. “If you’re new to reptiles, don’t jump into getting venomous snakes,” Qi cautioned. He received his snake in person, highlighting the importance of responsible pet ownership.
Recently, the surge in interest in the Indonesian pit viper has led to increased prices and availability issues on e-commerce platforms. After *Zootopia 2* premiered, many online searches for the snake increased, prompting sales spikes. Major platforms, including Alibaba and JD, have seen listings for the snake, despite concerns over their potential dangers. Just days after CNN inquired, many listings on JD were promptly removed.
Interestingly, fans are choosing to spend on safer merchandise instead. Plush toys and character-themed items have become popular. A blind box featuring the blue snake recently made the top-seller list, indicating the film’s enduring impact on consumer behavior.
As *Zootopia 2* continues to inspire excitement and discussion in China, the cultural perception of reptiles is evolving. While Gary De’Snake represents a whimsical character, the realities of keeping exotic pets demand serious consideration and responsibility.
With more and more young people showing interest in exotic pets, the dynamics of pet ownership in China may shift further in the future. The blend of entertainment and cultural trends suggests a fascinating evolution in how we view and care for different species.
