Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I was wondering if breeding reptiles full time is a profitable career.

How about part time?

Not that im going to attempt such a feat, just curious to how much money some of the vendors at reptile shows bring in.

Thanks.
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0.0.2 RES's
0.0.1 Common Snapping Turtle
0.0.1 Eastern Red Bellie
0.0.1 Map Turtle
1.1.0 Bearded Dragon

For most, it's a hobby. Breeding & sales cover the costs of the hobby. Plenty others make money... some a great deal... but most of these have put significant investments into it with the purchase of various morphs. I mean, just go to New England Reptiles site and you'll see Ball Pythons that sell for $40,000. Just breeding normals is not a way to make much money, at least for the 'little guy'.
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(¯`·.¸¸.·´Kane`·.¸¸.·´¯)

Despite the fact that you said you might not attempt this, I'd like to add for the general rule that when deciding to purchase a reptile, even for those who consider herping a hobby, the deciding factor is quality, not quantity.

I have had much better experiences with people who truly love herping versus those who are simply in it for the money. Baring, thats the same reason people go to breeders and not petshops. However, some breeders are doing the same thing as petshops do...just making more money.

So, now that I've hit the pessimistic side, If you decide to start breeding part or full time...I say go for it! What could be better than doing what you love...AND GETTING PAID FOR IT?!?!? Just remember, each herp is individual and your turnover rate will be better if your customers are offered great genetics and great service. Happy Herping

You basically need to work at it full time to make it really profitable, and even then it's pretty risky. I wouldn't do it unless I had a lot of money saved up. It's probably best to start building up the core of a breeding project but I guess at some point you either have to take the plunge.
But having the snakes pay for themselves plus a few nice dinners out for you isn't that tough. If you go this route I'd really be patient to buy quality breeders, ones that stand out from the crowd of their species. Then you can become known for having the nicest looking X and it makes it easier to sell your babies.
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Eryx - All the fun of a boa in a convenient pocket size!