A zebra can cost for an average price of $3,000 to $10,000. A zebra’s price can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, including its age, sex, species, location, and intended use. Male and baby zebras are typically more expensive than adult female zebras, and rarer zebra species like the mountain zebra and the Grevy’s zebra are typically more expensive than the plains zebra.
Before you come to that conclusion, there are some things you should be aware of. Rules for domestic pets and exotic pets are very different. The price of the animal will also vary to the same extent. Please read on for more detailed information.
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in the US: How Much Does a Zebra Cost?
In some US states, it is acceptable to keep zebras as pets. As a result, zebras can be purchased for $9000 to $11,500 at some zoos and wildlife sales. You can buy mixed-breed species, like donkey- and horse-zebra crosses, for between $3000 and about $5000.
Adoption programs for zebras range in price from $25 to $125 at wildlife conservation organizations. This consists of a gift bag, a species card, and a certificate of symbolic adoption.
In the UK: How Much Does a Zebra Cost?
Owning an exotic animal like a zebra is acceptable in the United Kingdom. However, you might need to show a license for dangerous wild animals, which you can obtain from your local government. That said, the price range for getting a pet zebra is roughly between $3,500 and $8000, or between pound;3,000 and pound;7,000.
For those interested in adopting a zebra, zoos and conservation initiatives charge about $35 or $40 for symbolic adoptions.
The Cost of Raising a Zebra
As you read through the article, getting a zebra as a pet will cost you a significant sum of money; the cost of the animal itself is only a small portion of the total cost of raising and caring for the animal.
It is sufficient to say that you will not enjoy yourself if you intend to keep the animal’s maintenance in check.
It’s a wild animal you’re interacting with. The requirements should always come first.
In comparison to domestic animals, these animals won’t fare well without needs. The majority of people who choose to get a pet do so without second-guessing the expensive and ongoing maintenance that comes with it.
When it comes to an exotic animal like a zebra, maintenance costs soar even further above average.
Zebra Feeding Cost
In addition to brak, they will eat grass, stems, and leaves. Either buy quality pasture land in this situation, or buy plant-based food from the market.
which, given their high price, will ruin your budget. Furthermore, you will need to provide food for the zebra every single day; adding up the cost won’t make your wallet happy.
Zebra Housing Cost
Zebras dislike being confined or fenced in. In a field, they enjoy the freedom to roam. The perception of zebras is that they are independent creatures who prefer to spend their time outside and in the open air.
You must therefore keep them inside the building.
A good 8-feet fence will do a perfect job keeping them inside, and it will cost $800 to $1000. As zebras have a tendency to breach defenses due to their wild behavior, you will also need to frequently check on the fence.
Medical Cost for Zebra
Visiting the vets will cost well over $200. Zebras don’t get sick very often, so any alarming symptom that is ignored will lead to significant future medical costs.
Therefore, it is best to follow their advice and visit the veterinarian. So you can be sure the zebras are healthy.
Is It Possible to Adopt a Zebra?
Instead of purchasing a real zebra, you could adopt one. Zebra Adoption is a program that is frequently provided by zoos and wildlife conservancies. Your symbolic adoption of your pet zebra will be purchased through this program.
You are able to make a donation to the zoo’s or conservatory’s fund through this fictitious adoption, and the money will go toward caring for the zebra. After purchasing an adoption kit, you will receive a certificate of adoption along with details about the zebra you have chosen to adopt.
You might also receive updates on how your adopted zebra is doing, depending on the adoption program you joined. Therefore, adopting zebras symbolically is a great way to care for them without having to spend a lot of time or money.
Some of the establishments where you can symbolically adopt zebras are the following:
- world wildlife organization. You can select the Zebra Adoption Kit that best fits your budget from a variety offered by the WWF’s Adopt-a-Zebra program.
- Gardens & Zoo of San Francisco. The SF Zoo also offers a symbolic adoption program, the proceeds of which will be used to support the upkeep of the Grant’s Zebras currently housed at the said zoo.
- The Marwell Zoo in the UK additionally provides a number of adoption programs, ranging from a child-friendly low-cost option to a high-end choice. For businesses and organizations, the zoo also provides group adoption programs. The Grevy’s zebras at the zoo will be taken care of with the money raised by these adoption programs.
Factors That Influence the Cost of a Zebra
Age and Gender
The two most significant factors that can affect a zebra’s price are age and gender. The cost of adult zebras is typically higher than that of their young, known as foals. This is due to the fact that young zebras are rarer and frequently very sought-after. Additionally, because male zebras can be used for breeding (producing more zebras), they are typically more expensive than female zebras.
Species
Another variable that affects price is the type of zebra. The three main types of zebras are the plains zebra, the mountain zebra, and the Grevy’s zebra. The plains zebra is the most prevalent and consequently typically has the lowest price. Mountain zebras and Grevy’s zebras are more expensive because they are more difficult to come by.
Location
A zebra’s price may vary depending on where it is purchased. Zebras that are indigenous to Africa typically cost more than zebras that are imported. Additionally, zebras may cost more to purchase in certain regions of the world than in other regions.
Purpose
The reason for purchasing a zebra can also affect its cost. For instance, purchasing zebras for breeding may be more expensive than purchasing zebras as pets or for zoo or circus exhibits.
Can You Legally Own a Zebra?
In a few American states, it is acceptable to own zebras. In some states, like Nevada, you may even be able to freely own exotic animals with little to no paperwork. However, some states, like North Dakota, are quite strict about exotic pet ownership and will require you to obtain a license before owning a zebra.
But in the majority of states, such as Rhode Island and Tennessee, you can only own a zebra if you operate a zoo, conservatory, or are involved in exotic animal research of some kind.
Things to Consider When Buying a Zebra
Feeding
Zebras must consume a lot of grass and other plants because they are herbivores. A zebra’s diet must be balanced and healthy, especially if it is unable to graze on grasses in the wild.
Housing
In order to move around and consume food, zebras require a lot of space. A zebra’s housing and fencing can therefore be costly. A typical zebra enclosure should have at least an acre of space, plenty of grass for grazing, and access to water.
Vet Check Up
Zebras require routine care from a veterinarian, just like any other animal, to stay healthy and content. This can include routine checkups, immunizations, and medical care for any illnesses or accidents that might occur.
Training
Zebras can be challenging to care for and to train. Because of this, anyone who wants to own a zebra should invest money in proper training and handling. This can ensure the safety of the zebra and its owner.
Are zebras dangerous?Many drive-through wildlife sanctuaries in the US allow screamed tourists to putter past curious zebras while driving with their car windows open, proving that they are indeed frightening. Violence is very uncommon. However, unlike horses, zebras have not been bred for generations to live in captivity and interact with humans. Males and females will both attack if they feel threatened or if they believe their harems are in danger. Zebras have been known to kill hyenas with a single swift kick and frequently defend themselves with their teeth or hooves.
Keep your distance and run away if you are attacked; this is generally the best course of action. While working on a ranch with exotic animals last year, a Pittsburg State University football player was bit and hauled around by a male zebra. * His forearm now bears a plate and six screws.
Final Thoughts
The cost of a zebra varies depending on its age, gender, species, region, and use. More expensive than plains zebras are newborns, male zebras, and rarer species like the mountain zebra and Grevy’s zebra. The cost of a zebra may also vary depending on its location and purpose. Take a look at the price of a zebra’s housing, food, and medical care. These expenses should be taken into account when estimating the cost of zebra ownership because they can add up.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Zebra Faster Than a Horse?
Zebras cannot outrun horses in speed. A zebra’s top speed is about 40 miles per hour, whereas a horse’s top speed has been measured at 55 miles per hour. Zebras, however, are renowned as long-distance runners due to their need to flee from predators like lions and cheetahs.
Why Do We Not Ride Zebras?
Zebras are not used for riding because of their unsuitable bodies. Zebras have a less muscular back than horses, which gives them a flatter appearance and makes them less comfortable to ride. They may experience pain while being ridden because they are weaker than horses.
Last but not least, zebras can become aggressive and throw riders off their backs because of their unpredictable nature. As a result, riding a zebra is dangerous.
Are Zebras Hard to Train?
It’s challenging to train zebras. Despite their reputation as friendly animals, zebras are still quite unpredictable. They may eventually attack their trainer due to their erratic behavior. They are not regarded as domesticated animals in part because of this.
Is It Expensive to Raise a Zebra?
The cost of zebra breeding is high. You should budget about $2000 for the down payment on a home and about $300 per month for food and medical expenses.
Apart from the steep acquisition costs, keep in mind that your zebra needs enough room to roam and graze without restriction. You should also spend money on food if your farm isn’t big enough. Despite the fact that they are difficult due to living in the wild, you should take your zebra to the vet for regular checkups. Because of this, raising a zebra can be quite costly.
Although it is possible, keeping a zebra as a pet might not be the best choice. A zebra’s high maintenance costs are in addition to its high acquisition costs. Keep in mind that they are not regarded as domesticated animals, and those that have adapted to a domesticated lifestyle are relatively uncommon. The best option for zebra enthusiasts is to symbolically adopt them from zoos or organizations dedicated to wildlife conservation.