On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $30 to $300 for a bearded dragon. However, it’s essential to remember that owning a bearded dragon costs beyond the initial purchase price. You will also need to factor in the cost of their enclosure, heating and lighting equipment, food, and veterinary care. In addition, bearded dragons can live for up to 10 years in captivity, according to PetMD.
Types of Bearded Dragon
Orange Morph
You can generally expect to pay anywhere from $250 to $500 or more for an Orange morph bearded dragon. The cost of an Orange morph bearded dragon can vary depending on several factors, such as the age, gender, lineage, and specific traits of the individual dragon and where you purchase it from. Generally, bearded dragons with rarer or more unique colors or patterns will be more expensive than usual or “wild-type” bearded dragons.
As for the Orange morph, it’s important to note that this term is not an official morph but rather a general term used to describe bearded dragons with orange coloration. However, there are different variations and degrees of “orange” in bearded dragons, so the price can vary depending on the intensity and consistency of the color.
Red Bearded Dragon
Red bearded dragons cost between $80 and $300, depending on the shade of red. These costs vary depending on the age and health of the dragon. Younger dragons cost less than older ones, typically around $50 each. Red bearded dragons are not found at regular pet stores; they must be purchased from private breeders specializing in this species.
To achieve a vivid red coloration, years of selective breeding are required. This means that younger dragons cost less than older ones. Red bearded dragons live long and healthy lives, often reaching 20 years or more.
Zero Morph
On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1,500 or more for a Zero bearded dragon. The Zero bearded dragon is a morph characterized by its lack of scales, resulting in smoother and softer skin. The Zero morph is a recessive trait, meaning that both parents must carry the gene to produce offspring with this trait. Because of its rarity and unique appearance, the Zero morph is generally more expensive than other bearded dragon morphs.
Hypomelanistic Morphs
You can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 or more for a Hypomelanistic bearded dragon. Hypomelanistic bearded dragons are a morph that is characterized by reduced melanin pigmentation, resulting in a lighter coloration compared to “normal” or “wild type” bearded dragons. The Hypomelanistic morph has different variations, such as the Hypo and the Translucent Hypo.
Translucent Morphs
A Translucent bearded dragon costs anywhere from $250 to $1,500. Translucent bearded dragons are a morph that is characterized by their translucent or see-through scales. This is caused by a genetic mutation that affects the skin’s ability to produce pigmentation. Translucent bearded dragons can have a wide range of colors, from white to yellow to orange.
Bearded Dragon Monthly Cost of Ownership
Substrate
Bearded dragon owners often debate the best substrate for their pets. Subtracting options range from hardwood charcoal paper to premium slate tiles. Reptile carpet is a popular substrate choice for bearded dragons, as it is low maintenance, safe, and absorbent. Sand can also be used for bearded dragons, but owners must be careful about impaction issues.
Appropriate substrates for bearded dragons must be non-abrasive and easy to clean so they don’t cause harm or discomfort to the reptile. Perpetual-use substrates cost approximately 50 dollars per year; this cost is often offset by the cost of replacing the substrate periodically.
Food
The cost of food for a bearded dragon can vary depending on several factors, such as size, age, and dietary needs. Here is a breakdown of the potential costs:
- Live insects: A container of 100 crickets can cost anywhere from $10 to $20, while a container of 500 mealworms can cost around $12. Depending on the size of your bearded dragon and how often you feed them, you can expect to spend anywhere from $20 to $50 or more per month on live insects.
- Vegetables and fruits: You can purchase greens, such as collard greens and mustard greens, for around $2 to $3 per bundle, while fruits like strawberries and apples can cost around $1 to $2 per pound. Depending on the size of your bearded dragon and how often you feed them, you can expect to spend around $10 to $20 per month on produce.
- Supplements: Bearded dragons require supplements, such as calcium and multivitamins, to ensure they get all the necessary nutrients. The cost of supplements can vary depending on the type and brand you purchase, but you can expect to spend around $10 to $20 monthly.
Light and Heat Bulbs
- Basking bulb: Bearded dragons require a basking bulb to provide heat and simulate the sun’s warmth. The cost of a basking bulb can vary depending on the wattage and brand, but you can expect to spend around $5 to $20 per bulb.
- UVB bulb: Bearded dragons require a UVB bulb to provide them with the necessary UV radiation for proper bone growth and development. The cost of a UVB bulb can vary depending on the brand and size, but you can expect to spend around $20 to $50 or more per bulb.
- Ceramic heat emitter: Besides the basking bulb, you may need a ceramic heat emitter to provide additional heat at night. The cost of a ceramic heat emitter can vary depending on the wattage and brand, but you can expect to spend around $20 to $30 per bulb.
- Lighting fixture: You will also need a lighting fixture to hold your bulbs. The fixture cost can vary depending on the type and brand, but you can expect to spend around $20 to $50 or more.
Healthcare
- Veterinary visits: It’s a good idea to take your bearded dragon to the vet for regular checkups and to address any health concerns. The cost of a veterinary visit can vary depending on your location and the specific services provided, but you can expect to spend anywhere from $50 to $150 or more per visit.
- Parasite testing: Bearded dragons can be prone to parasites, so they must be tested regularly. The cost of parasite testing can vary depending on the type of test and the vet’s fees, but you can expect to spend around $30 to $50 or more per test.
- Medications: If your bearded dragon requires medication to treat an illness or infection, the cost of the medication can vary depending on the type and dosage. You may also need to pay for follow-up visits to monitor your dragon’s progress. The cost of medication and follow-up visits can vary widely, but you can expect to spend around $50 to $200 or more.
- Specialized care: In some cases, bearded dragons may require specialized care, such as surgery or treatment for metabolic bone disease. The cost of specialized care can vary widely depending on the specific treatment and the vet’s fees, but you can expect to spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
