Leopard Tortoise Adult Pricing

[Reptile Throne]

I noticed that on most classifieds ads that I see there is a significant gap in the price between baby leopard tortoises and adult leopard tortoises. Generally I have noticed that adults will even sell for over 1000 dollars. What causes this huge price gap? I know that with bearded dragons (I breed them) adults hold more value than babies but generally not by so much. Thanks for any answers in advance!

 

[Levi the Leopard]

I believe its because of "time and size". It has taken a long time to get to those sizes.

IMO I'd rather pay a hundred bucks for a hatchling to raise it smooth than pay $1 for the average pyramided large leopard you see listed.
I would pay a great price for a larger smooth leopard.

What's really neat is that raising them humid has a by product of fast growth. So I don't have to wait too long for them to be bigger

 

[Yvonne G]

Heather hit the nail on the head. Tortoises grow so slowly, and it is time/energy consuming for the keeper to raise them up to adult size. While there has been practically no effort at all to get a baby and sell it.

 

[Reptile Throne]

Thanks for the responses guys! I have an 8 year old leopard tortoise that raised from a hatchling so I completely agree. I was just curious because I'm thinking about starting another breeding project. Thanks again!

 

[HerbsMommy]

Whoa! Mine grows like a little weed! I swear he grows every day! Hahaha