Are you considering adding a softshell turtle to your family of pets but unsure about How Much Do Softshell Turtles Cost? Look no further!
This comprehensive analysis breaks down everything you need to know about the cost of owning a softshell turtle.
From initial expenses like enclosure and food costs to long-term investments such as veterinary care, we cover it all.
So before making any decisions, read on to discover the true cost of bringing home one of these charismatic reptiles!
How Much Do Softshell Turtles Cost?
A softshell turtle can cost anywhere from $5 to $200, depending on the turtle’s size, species, and age. Turtles that are captive-bred and -raised typically cost less than wild-caught ones.
Baby softshell turtles usually cost between $5 and $25 each. Juvenile and adult softshell turtles typically cost between $50 and $200 each.
Some of the most expensive softshell turtles include the Chinese Softshell Turtle (Pelodiscus sinensis), which can cost up to $1,000 each, and the Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata), which can cost up to $2,500 each.
The cost of purchasing a softshell turtle also depends on the seller. Pet stores typically sell turtles for higher prices than private breeders or reptile expos. Additionally, the cost of housing and caring for a softshell turtle must be considered.
I’m adding a graph including ten typical market costs of accessible softshell turtles:
| Species | Market Cost |
|---|---|
| Indian Softshell | $20 – $50 |
| Chinese Softshell | $100 -$1,000 |
| Spiny Softshell | $10 – $25 |
| Spotted Turtle | $200 -$2,500 |
| Flatback Turtle | $50 – $150 |
| Western Chicken | $5 – $15 |
| Big-headed Turtle | $50 – $100 |
| Pond Slider | $10 – $20 |
| Eastern Spiny | $25 -$75 |
| Map Turtle | $20 -$100 |
Sources for Purchasing Softshell Turtles
There are several places where you can buy softshell turtles. Top 10 most popular places whit cost include:
| Shop Name | Information Website | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Reptile City | (reptilecity.com) | Depending on size and species, prices range from $14.99 to $69.99. |
| Josh’s Frogs | (joshsfrogs.com) | Depending on size and species, prices range from $24.99 to $109.99. |
| Backwater Reptiles | (backwaterreptiles.com) | Depending on size and species, prices range from $18.99 to $79.99. |
| The Turtle Store | (theturtlestore.com) | Depending on size and species, prices range from $19.95 to $89.95. |
| Petco | (petco.com) | Depending on size and species, prices range from $20 to $100. |
| That Fish Place | (thatpetplace.com) | Depending on size and species, prices range from $20 to $100. |
| MyTurtleStore | (myturtlestore.com) | Prices range from $19 to$84, depending on size and species. |
| TurtlesForSaleOnline | (turtlesforsaleonline .com ) | Depending on size and species, prices range from $39.99 to $129.99. |
| PetSmart | (petsmart.com) | Depending on size and species, prices range from $20 to $100. |
| LLLReptile | (lllreptile.com) | Depending on size and species, prices range from $19.99 to $99.99. |
Factors Influencing Softshell Turtle Costs
Softshell turtles are highly sought after as pets and for food, so various factors determine their price. Some of the factors that affect the price of a softshell turtle include:
1. Size:
The size of the turtle can significantly affect its price. More giant turtles are often more expensive than smaller ones.
2. Species:
There are many different species of softshell turtles, some of which are rare and, therefore, more expensive than others.
3. Age:
Younger softshell turtles are often less expensive than older ones because they have yet to reach their full size and potential.
4. Breeder/Vendor:
The reputation of the breeder or vendor selling the turtle can also determine its price. Reputable breeders or vendors will usually charge higher prices for their animals due to the quality they provide.
5. Location:
The location of the breeder or vendor can also affect the price of the turtle. Softshell turtles may be more expensive in some areas due to increased demand and limited availability.
6. Health:
The health of the turtle is another factor that can affect its price. Healthy turtles are usually more expensive than those with health issues.
Ethical Considerations When Buying Softshell Turtles
There are a few key things to remember regarding ethical considerations for softshell turtles. First and foremost, you must ensure that the turtle you’re considering purchasing has been raised humanely and responsibly.
This means checking to see if the turtle has been kept in a clean and spacious enclosure, given a proper diet, and provided with regular veterinary care.
It’s also important to consider your purchase’s impact on wild populations of softshell turtles. These animals are already at risk due to habitat loss and pollution, so buying a turtle from the wild only furthers their decline.
If you must purchase a softshell turtle, be sure to do so from a reputable breeder who is not contributing to the problem.
Summary:
In conclusion, the cost of a softshell turtle depends on several factors, including the type of turtle, where you purchase it, and whether or not you need to buy additional supplies.
Overall, softshell turtles can be relatively affordable pets. I hope this article has helped provide insight into the cost of a softshell turtle.
Happy turtle shopping!
