Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi guys

I'm interested in leopard tortoises, but a thing jump to my mind, why is there a big difference in price in hatchlings of leopard tortoise. I see hatchlings going for $125 and others going for $325, can someone light up this for me

Thanks
Manuel Cantu

Well, some folks are better at sales than others...also, for those who regard leopards as distinct subspecies, the G.(Stigmochelys) pardalis pardalis seem to command a higher price than the G. pardalis babcocki. So the "apples to oranges" applies when you compare prices. Also, you will see regional variation in both price and strains of animal i.e. large animals vs. small, southern contintent vs. equatorial, and breeders with stellar reputations might command a higer price, whereas brokers who want to move animals quick might discount them... They are worth what you can get for them...at least that has been my experience. vic h.

Thanks for the info VICtort, you help me a lot. Your info brought me another question, what are the differences between the Pardalis and Babcocki subspecies? size, color, shell form?
Thanks
Manuel Cantu

Be sure to check out R. and J. Fife's book, Leopard tortoises (2006-ISBN 0-9638130-6-4). It is up to date, with current taxonomy and written by guys with extensive experience and will answer almost all your Q's. Basically size and shell pattern, but dividing them is controversial and confusing if you do not know the land of origin. Most pardalis pardalis are on the larger side, most babcocki are smaller, at least what we see in the USA. G. p.babcocki are often more colorful, but many exceptions. ...read the book, you will enjoy it and learn a lot. vic h.