How Much Does an Axolotl Cost?

brine shrimp An axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum), also known as a Mexican salamander or Mexican walking fish, will not routinely undergo metamorphosis from the larval to the adult form.

Coming from the Xochimilco Lake in Mexico, where they are considered an endangered species due to the very little water left, this species is readily bred in captivity.

“Axolotl” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by zenmasterdod

How much does a pet axolotl cost?

The cost of an axolotl will depend on its colors, size, age and where you purchase it.  Most purchases, from what we researched, will be anywhere from $15 to $40 either online or at a local pet store.

Burke’s Backyard notes the average cost is $20 to $35, for instance.

At BackwaterReptiles.com, they offer a two to three-inch wild Leucistic axolotl for $30.

Types of axolotls

Chimera — Known as a rarer morph, the chimera is created when two eggs fuse together, with each side growing according to the egg it came from.  The result leads to a split-down-the-middle appearance with one side often growing slower than the other.  The survival rate is extremely low and can’t be bred.

Copper —  A variety of the albino, the copper axolotl will have red-tinted eyes with a pink-light color with dark brown spots.

GFP — Known as a green fluorescent protein, these axolotls have a gene known as the GFP gene, which is a genetically modified protein that was initially introduced in a lab setting for cancer research.  Because of this protein, it allows the axolotl to glow as a vibrant green color when under a UV light. The less pigment it has, the brighter the glow will be.

Golden — This axolotl will have a golden yellow body with shiny-like patches and clearer eyes.  Since it lacks melanophores, this is what gives it a golden-like appearance.

Leucistic — A white/pink body color with darker black eyes and red gills.  It may or may not develop freckles.

Melanoid — With an increased number of melanophores, this axolotl will have a lack of shine, meaning they will be solid black in color.

Piebald — A piebald axolotl is when the pigmentation goes down the body and side, not just the head and top, similar to that of a leucistic.  This axolotl is usually darker and will have darker black spots.

Wild – A combination of green, brown, blacks or any other color with speckles of shiny gold and darker eyes.

White — Known as an albino axolotl, it will have more of a white-pinkish body with clearish red eyes and brighter red gills.  It can come in two forms, either white or axanthic.

What are the extra costs?

Larger than the average salamander, an axolotl will need, at a minimum, a 10 to 20-gallon fish tank, and these tanks, if purchased brand new, can cost about $100 or so.  A start kit, including a filter pump, pH test kit and gravel, can cost upwards of $175 to get started.

In captivity, an axolotl will feed on brine shrimp, pellets small strips of beef or earthworm, either fresh or frozen.  Be prepared to spend a few dollars a week on food.  brine shrimp, for example, can cost less than $5 for a 0.67-ounce container.

If purchasing online, you may have to budget for additional shipping fees.

Tips to know:

An axolotl measures six to 18 inches long, with the average length being nine inches. Females will have a larger and wider head when compared to a male.  They will reach maturity at 12 months.

They can be found in a variety of colors, including albino, black, golden, grey and other colors.  In the wild, the most common color is black.  They have a tadpole-like appearance with a long tail.  A fine will run from the back of the head to the tail alongside the underside of the tail.  They will also have four lizard-like legs and a pair of feather-like gills on the head.

The tank doesn’t have to be full of water; instead, it only needs to be as deep as the axolotl’s full length.  This tank should always be kept away from the direct sunlight, and the water should be kept cool, often about 57 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

An adult axolotl can be housed with other adults; however, owners are highly encouraged to watch out for cannibalistic behavior toward each other.  Adults will eat the young, and young axolotls will each other.  They can often become aggressive when they are either underfed, agitated or simply don’t have enough room to roam inside their aquarium.  Juveniles should be housed in separate enclosures.

In captivity, the average lifespan is 12 to 15 years.

It is not recommended you use sand or gravel as a substrate as they often feed on it.

You will not need an aquarium filter as long as you change 90 percent of the water at least once per week.  In fact, a filter can often cause stress to an axolotl due to the water current it can create.

Handling an axolotl too often can cause stress or even fungal infection.

Reptiles Magazine offers an in-depth axolotl care sheet.

How can I save money?

Check out Craigslist to see if you can find an owner getting rid of their pet along with all of the supplies.

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How Much Does an Ancestry.comDNA Test Cost?

The Ancestry.comDNA test, the #1 selling consumer DNA test, will estimate your origins to more than 165 ethnic regions around the world, allowing you to journey into the past to find out where your family is from.

How much does an Ancestry.comDNA test cost?

The current cost of an Ancestry.com DNA test, as of 2017, is $99, plus the cost of shipping.  The costs, during a promotion or with a coupon, can often be as cheap as $79.

Ancestry.comDNA test overview

The costs above will include a DNA test kit and the lab processing fee.  Inside of the kit will include a saliva collection tube, a pre-paid return mailer and detailed instructions. You will also have to activate your kit online in order to process your test at the lab.

The Ancestry.comDNA test will sequence your genes to help trace your geographical roots, but unlike other tests, it will not provide health and wellness information.  It will include information about your ethnicity across 165 regions and identifies potential relatives through DNA matching to others who have taken the AncestryDNA test.  This Business Insider article shows you what the kit looks like inside.

According to this PC Magazine review, AncestryDNA will search their database and will include your username, possible relationship and your genetic ethnicity.  All of this information, according to the review, can be viewed on the dashboard, all labeled with the confidence level and the possible range, ranging from second to sixth+ cousin.  Users are able to decide how much information they want to share with the website.

Tips to know

Testing kits are available in more than 35 countries around the world, including Albania, Armenia, Australia, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Georgia, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Malta, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Sweden, Turkey, the United Kingdom, United States and Vatican City.

The test results, according to those who took the test, said it would take about six weeks to receive your results.  When the results are ready, the company will send you an email with a link to the DNA results, and you will be able to access these results anytime with a password-protected Ancestry.com account.

According to Amazon, the Ancestry.comDNA test is the only test that offers six million chances to help you find new relatives.

The company uses microarray-based autosomal DNA testing, which is able to survey a person’s entire genome at over 700,000 locations.  The database, being the leader in the industry, includes more than six million people who have taken the test.

Customers can contact a live operator via the Ancestry phone number at 1 (800) 262-3787.

How can I save money?

Coupons and/or discounts are readily available on the company’s official website.  Be sure to check out their official offer and discount page to see if any offers are active at the time of purchase.

Ancestry.com is one of the many competitors on the market.  Be sure to compare prices with other companies such as Family Tree DNA, MyHeritage and 23AndMe.

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How Much Does Ansys Cost?

ANSYS is a recognized market leader in FEA analysis as most professional FEA analysts prefer using it. It is a finite element analysis software meant for structural physics.

It is capable of simulating static (stationary), dynamic (moving) as well as heat transfer (thermal) problems.

How much does an ANSYS license cost?

On average, Athe cost of an Ansys license will depend on the number of licenses required, the nature of the license, who’s buying it and which version you want.  We were able to find a catalog with the prices, but these prices are accurate as of 2013.  Use the prices inside the table below as an estimate only.

According to one member on this mcadcentral.com forum thread, he was quoted $28,500 in the early 2000s.

On another forum thread at Eng-Tips.com, a forum member said Multiphysics was about $45,000 for a perpetual license plus an annual tech support fee.

ANSYS license overview

ANSYS is a general purpose software that is used to simulate interactions of all the disciplines of physics, vibration, fluid dynamics, structural, heat transfer as well as electromagnetic for engineers. Ansys (structural and thermal) allows for more user intervention as pertaining to meshing parameters and analysis settings.

Besides enabling to simulate working conditions or tests, ANSYS enables testing in a virtual environment prior to manufacturing prototypes of products. In addition, determining and improving weak points, as well as computing life and predicting probable problems, are possible through 3D simulations in a virtual environment.

ANSYS can import CAD data and enable building a geometry with its pre-processing capabilities. Likewise, in the same pre-processor, finite element model (mesh) that is required for computation is generated. Subsequent to defining loadings and performing analysis, the results can be viewed as graphical and numerical.

The ANSYS program has various design analysis applications, which range from everyday items such as cookware, dishwashers, running shoes, beverage cans and automobiles to such highly sophisticated systems as aircraft, bridges, farm machinery, nuclear reactor containment buildings, X-ray equipment and orbiting satellites.

What are the extra costs?

An FEA analyst can keep his/her skills up to date by enrolling in a comprehensive range of ANSYS training courses which cover a variety of subjects. Through the acquired skills, they can make the best use of the software tools as quickly as possible. The training courses, while optional, can range from $250 to $1,200.

A yearly tech support licensing fee can cost about $400 per year.

ANSYS offers bundles, which include the solver and the pre/post processor, at about $5,000.

Tips to know

Anyone who has an ANSYS license is capable of working with ANSYS Workbench. Similar to the ANSYS interface, ANSYS Workbench capacities are limited due to the possessed license. The ANSYS Workbench platform integrates simulation technologies as well as parametric CAD systems with exceptional automation and performance. The power of ANSYS-Workbench comes from the ANSYS solver algorithms with several years of experience. Besides, the object of ANSYS Workbench is authentication and improvement of the product in a virtual environment.

ANSYS can work while being integrated with other engineering software via a desktop by adding CAD and FEA connection modules. ANSYS supports multiple processors at no additional charge. It also offers 64-bit software at no additional charge.

How can I save money?

GSA gets a discount of about 30 to 50 percent.

Student and bulk discounts may also be available.

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How Much Does Apoquel Cost?

Apoquel from Zoetis offers rapid relief from itching (pruritus) for dogs that have allergic dermatitis.

Unlike common therapies, such as antihistamines, steroids, or cyclosporines, Apoquel is the only treatment that is specifically designed to go directly to the source of the itch. It is considered to be a great substitute to cortisone, which could have a number of side effects with long and short-term usage.

Apoquel is safe and has no contraindications. It comes in tablet form and works in as little as four hours, offering 24 hours of relief.

“IMG_0694” (CC BY 2.0) by kmac989

How much does Apoquel for dogs cost?

On average, Apoquel costs about $1.50 to $3 per tablet.  The cost will depend on the strength and where you buy it from.

At 1-800-PetMeds, for example, the price per tablet starts at $2.64.  A 3.6 mg tablet is $2.64, a 5.4 mg tablet is $2.76 and a 16 mg tablet is $2.89.  These are prices after the 15 percent coupon code is applied.

PetSmart starts at $2.50 per tablet, regardless of the dosage strength.

Apoquel overview

Apoquel tablets are available in three different strengths:  3.6, 5.4 and 16mg.  Each strength can cover a range of canine weights.  For the proper strength of tablets and the number of tablets to be administered, check the dosage label in the package leaflet.  The dose is 0.18 to 0.27 mg/lb of body weight, meaning the recommended initial dosage for a dog weighing 6.6 to 9.9 pounds is one half of a 3.6 mg tablet twice per day, for example.  Refer to our dosage chart below.

Apoquel (oclacitinib tablet) is a fast-acting anti-itch drug for used with canines. It’s manufactured by Zoetis, the world-renowned drug manufacturer.

What are the extra costs?

Apoquel can be used in combination with a majority of common therapies, including inoculations, antibiotics, NSAIDs and allergen immunotherapy. Allergy testing and allergy shots (immune-serum injections) are still a crucial option to consider when combating chronic, year-round allergies.

Tips to know

Apoquel is not an antihistamine, immune suppressant or a steroid in the sense that cyclosporine is. Apoquel has fewer effects on other immunity components to generalized infection. It uniquely targets cytokine signaling to control canine inflammation and itching regardless of the underlying cause.

You can administer Apoquel with or without food.

Apoquel is suited for dogs older than 12 months old, according to the drug manufacturer.  If younger than this, then it can increase the chances of developing a serious infection or may cause existing parasitic skin infections to get worse.

Common side effects include diarrhea and/or vomiting.

Since the medication works in such a narrow suppression range, other immune system components are less affected and retain the capacity to fight an infection and disease in the body. Apoquel can relieve the scratching and biting signs seen with allergies in 24 hours without the immune suppression of cyclosporine or the side effects of corticosteroids.

It has been found to be safe and effective in controlling acute (short-term or sudden onset) and chronic (long-term) itching for dogs. Oclacitinib, the active substance in Apoquel, is an immune-modulator — a drug that changes the activity of the immune system — which works by blocking the action of Janus kinases enzymes. These are enzymes that play a key role in the processes of itchiness and inflammation including those involved in atopic dermatitis and allergic dermatitis in canine. It is designed to specifically block pathways causing itching and inflammation with much less pronounced impact on general immune function. By blocking these enzymes, the drug reduces inflammation and itchiness associated with the diseases.

The Aapoquel generic is known as oclacitinib.  As of 2017, there is no over-the-counter substitute or generic version available.

Aapoquel dosage chart

How can I save money?

If purchasing from an online pharmacy, look for coupon codes as they are readily available.

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How Much Does Anthill Art Cost?

Instead of wiping out ants with pesticides, an anonymous American artist is much more astute about it.

Anthill art fills ant colonies with molten aluminum, creating massive, intricate castings showing the architecture of the ants’ nests.

How much does anthill art cost?

On average, the cost of the art is going to greatly depend on the piece and the competition.  The average price can range anywhere from a few hundred to more than a few thousand.

At eBay, at the time of this publishing, we were able to find close to 50+ results ranging from $45 to more than $300+

A member on this StraightDope.com forum thread stated that one auction was close to the $4,200 range.

Anthill art overview

During the process, they first melt aluminum and then the molten hot aluminum is poured down an anthill, filling the labyrinthine passageways and chambers. The artist then waits for the liquid to re-harden by cooling and solidifying, then extracts it and finally cleans the excess dirt. The result is a stunning piece of artwork that offers you a look at what the underground world of the ants looks like. The pesky ant hills are turned into elaborate, educational sculptures.

Anthill art sells cast aluminum sculptures of ant colonies which are made by pouring molten aluminum directly into an ant colony. They create metal sculptures which alternately resemble stalagmites, Christmas trees, and deformed antlers by pouring molten aluminum into active anthills. The revealing works of art are created by the pouring the molten liquid to fill the tunnels and chambers of the ant nests, wiping out all of the insects inside. Once the metal re-hardens, the sculpture is excavated and blasted using water to remove dirt and impurities. Before they are dug up, it’s brushed down and then mounted on a wooden base.

The final piece reveals the remarkable twists and turns which make up an ant colony. The Anthill Art sculptures expose the varying colony designs of various ant species, from the simple branching nest of carpenter ants to the complex colony of fire ants.

The sculptures are currently for sale on eBay or via the official website.

What are the extra costs?

You will need to also factor in the shipping and transportation cost of the art pieces if you were to purchase it online.

Tips to know

The owner of anthillart.com has defended the methodology stating that most of the colonies belong to the invasive species of ants, known as the fire ant/Solenopsis ant, that is already subject to eradication programs. They sell the finished art products on eBay to collectors, homeowners, and schools. There are casts of different types of ants that have been sold previously, all taking on peculiar shapes.

To see what some of the pieces look like, BuzzFeed.com showcased six pieces they liked.

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How Much Does an Anteater Cost?

Anteaters are considered any of the four species of the toothless, insect-eating mammals.

Found all throughout the Southern Hemisphere, they are commonly found in Africa, Asia and some parts of Australia.

“Ybate_2b” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by gvgoebel

How much does a pet anteater cost?

On average, an anteater can cost somewhere between $1,000 and $5,000+ depending on where it is purchased. As a general rule, you will pay more for a tame healthy young Anteater from a reputable breeder.  The costs, ultimately, will depend on the age, the quality, exact species, geographical location and the breeder you choose.  However, before purchasing, check with your local municipality to ensure owning this type of exotic pet is legal.

The Spruce notes that the average anteater could cost $3,500 to $8,000.

What are the extra costs?

These animals will require special permits to own as mentioned, and the costs will depend on your geographical location.

Weekly feeding can cost about $30 to $60, depending on what you feed it.  In the wild, anteaters live on their own or in pairs, usually with the mother and offspring, and mainly feed on ants and termites. They are known to be capable of consuming over 30,000 insects — mainly termites — each day.  In captivity, however, anteaters have high protein requirements due to their acidic stomachs and no teeth.  Most owners allow their pets to find ants while on a walk, but as for purchases, their diets will consist of a commercially available feed, which is usually a powder compromised of ants, fruits, termites and honey.  Food is estimated at $50 to $70 per month.

A large cage, along with ropes, a hammock and toys are highly recommended to ensure they live a happy and healthy life.  Anteaters will spend most of their lives in the trees, so at a minimum, a tree that they are able to climb is a must.  Whether it’s a sturdy limb or tree branches, it should be available at all times. Depending on the setup, a well-built cage with all of the necessary add-ons can easily cost hundreds or thousands of dollars.

With a very low body temperature, an anteater should be kept in room-like temperature climates at all times, meaning you may need a heating or cooling element to keep the room comfortable.

As with any pet, medical expenses, both routine and unexcepted, need to be considered.  Bear in mind that is may be hard to find a vet who is willing to work with an anteater, so you may find yourself either driving long distances or paying a hefty price to have a vet visit your home.  Anteaters are prone to developing respiratory diseases, dry skin or even organ failure due to an inappropriate diet.

Tips to know:

An anteater is a long-tailed animal with an elongated skull and tubular muzzle. The anteater is found in several parts of Central and South America, including Colombia, Ecuador, Trinidad, Bolivia, Argentina, Brazil, and Peru, where it inhabits forests, jungles, grasslands and even the lower mountain regions.

There are different anteater species available as an exotic pet. The silky or pygmy anteater, which is very small in size, or the tamandua anteater, which are considered medium in size.  The giant, as the name implies, will be the largest option.  The silky, which is arboreal, will thrive with a lot of trees, whereas a tamandua thrives on both trees and land.  The giant anteater will thrive only on the land.

With the tail included, the average anteater measure 13 to 35 inches long and can weigh anywhere from three to 19 pounds.

The average life expectancy, even when in captivity, is about seven years.

Despite their soft appearance, the anteaters are ready to defend themselves against predators by using their large claws, spraying their anal glands and/or by making a hissing noise.

You should take your pet anteater for a walk once each day just as you would a dog. It should be on a leash, even though it is tame. They might climb trees without permission or wander off.

Anteaters are not known to be social creatures, and for this reason, it’s best you house them alone to avoid conflicts.  Pet owners often prefer purchasing an anteater when young to keep them as tame as possible.

Even if tame, anteaters are known to destroy furniture or carpet by using their claws or even urinating to mark their territory.

Their claws need to be trimmed every week.

Anteaters are known to be very demanding, often crying if you don’t pay enough attention.  If you don’t feel you can offer them the attention they desrve, then you may want to look for another pet.

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How Much Do Chickens Cost?

Many chicken breeds exist, varying in size and color.

Whether it’s for laying eggs or for the meat, the prices will vary.

“Chicken!” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by Andrew*

How much do chickens cost?

On average, baby sexed chicks can cost $2 to $5 each, and this price depends on the age (price peaks at around 21 weeks of age), sex (females cost more than males) and also how rare the breed is. You can expect to pay an upward of $18 to $30 for a rare breed. A started pullet — a young hen that has just started to lay eggs —  should cost about $15 to $20 each.  Seeing chickens are social creatures, experts recommend at least two on your farm.

Refer to our table below to see what the most popular types of chickens can cost in your area:

According to WeedemandReap.com, chicks from regular hatcheries will be cheaper while organic or heirloom chicks will cost more.  Regular hatcheries, according to the writer, will take six to eight weeks to raise to maturity, while heirloom chicks should expect a 10 to 12-week time frame.

A writer on Money Magazine paid $2.85 each for her chicks via a hatchery catalog.

BackyardChickens.com say you should expect to pay $3 to $5 for a day-old chick or up to $50 for a rare breed.  Older chicks and mature chickens, on the other hand, can cost $20 to $50 for a pullet or $5 to $10 for a rooster.  The writer also notes that if you’re not fussy with your purchase, an older rooster can often be found for free on Craigslist.

What are the extra costs?

As an initial investment, you will need a booder with lights for the chicks and a coop with perches, nest boxes, a waterer, feeder and bedding for the adults.  These startup costs, if you were to need these items, could cost about $600 for everything.  The average coop can contain three to ten chickens, and as a rule of thumb, a chicken needs about 10 square feet.

For the first 10 weeks, according to the Countryside Daily, your chick should be eating a high protein, high-cost chick feed.  A 50-pound bag of feed, on average, should cost close to $20 or about $0.40 per pound.  the average chick will each a pound a week.  For the next 12 weeks after the first 10 weeks, the bird will start to consume closer to 1.5 pounds per week.  In the end, be prepared to spend about $1.50 to $2 per month to feed each chicken.

Litter, such as pine shavings, are recommended for the flooring inside the coop.  A two-cubic-foot bag can last about two months and will cost close to $10 or $5 a month.

In most cities, in order to raise chickens legally, you may need to apply for a permit, which can cost about $50 initially and another $10~ per year after.  This Smart Asset article, for instance, claims that Grand Rapids, Michigan, charges $50 for the first year and $10 after for its residents.

Occasionally, just like a pet, a chicken may need medical attention.  This could include deworming the flock or even buying respiratory medicine for a cold.  A chicken first aid kit can cost less than $10 on average.

If purchasing your chicks online, shipping fees may apply, especially if you don’t meet the minimum spending.

While optional, an incubator can cost about $100.  This incubator allows you to hatch fertilized eggs.

Tips to know:

Before buying a chicken, be sure to check your local municipality zoning laws to ensure you’re in compliance with chicken raising.  Even if they allow backyard chickens, keep in mind most cities will have a noise ordinance which could cause a concern if you were to have a rooster.

Depending on the breed, you should be able to get around six eggs per week over the course of the chicken’s life.

If you’re first starting out the Rhode Island Reds, Speckled Sussex, Barnvelders and Wyandottes are highly recommended, according to TheHappyChickenCoop.com.

The average chicken can live eight to ten years.

Standard chickens weigh four to seven pounds, depending on the breed and sex, whereas Bantam chickens can be smaller, weighing about one to two pounds.

You can purchase chickens either via a local farmer or even online view a hatchery.

How can I save money?

Chicken owners recommend building your own shelter by using scrap lumber to cut down on costs as you don’t need a fancy shelter to raise happy chickens.  If you don’t want to invest the time, Amazon.com has plenty of prebuilt coops for less than $500.

Buying in bulk can often bring the costs “per chick” down.

Chicks will always be cheaper than mature chickens, even if you factor in the costs to raise them.

To save on feed, free range chickens can cut down the costs if you have the room.

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How Much Does a Baby Cheetah Cost?

Cheetahs, unusual felines found in Africa, exemplify grace, agility, and ferocity.

Cheetahs, for thousands of years, have been kept as pets, but they have not yet been domesticated as of yet.

Often, they were the companions of the high profile and rich. Emperors and other royalty used trained cheetahs to hunt gazelles in the 16th century.

“National Zoo 01” (CC BY 2.0) by Becker1999

How much does a pet cheetah cost?

Keep in mind that owning a cheetah in the United States is extremely rare and will more than likely require a special exotic animal license.  If you do decide to own one, it’s highly recommended you check out your local city/county rules to know the legalities as, again, chances are you won’t find many owners in the United States.  Most cheetah pets can be found in the United Arab Emirates or Western Asian countries, and according to the classified listings we found, the prices were about $10,000 to $25,000 for just the animal.  Yes, you can buy captive bred cheetahs as long as they have the proper paperwork and vaccination records.

One comment on this QatarLiving.com forum thread stated that you can buy captive bred cheetahs as an exotic pet from Europe for about $10,000 to $15,000.

What are the extra costs?

It is estimated that it can cost about $10,000 each year to take care of a cheetah, not including the cost of constructing its living quarters.  A cheetah will need at least three acres to live somewhat comfortably; however, the more space you have, the better their life will be.  At a minimum, you should be prepared to offer at least three acres, and the costs of the enclosure, fencing and land, can easily reach well into the five figures if you’re starting fresh.  Aside from the land, a fence, at least nine feet tall, will be required to prevent its escape as well.

It is illegal to acquire one without a license if you reside in the United States. You will need federal and state permits, which are extremely pricey. The licenses and dues can cost you well over $200 a year.

States will often require you carry liability insurance. That can cost you around $1,000 to $14,000 per year depending on your history.

A grown cheetah will consume up to 15 pounds of raw meat daily.  This can easily translate to hundreds of dollars per month.  Cheetahs, in the wild, prey on gazelles, antelopes, warthogs, porcupines, rabbits and even ostriches.  In the zoo, however, the meat will often be grounded, coming from chicken, rabbit or beef.  Cubs, like other mammals, will live on milk.

Veterinary care is essential for the well-being of a cheetah just like other pets.  .If your cat gets its annual shots and does not need any emergency care, the vet bill will be around $125 to $300 depending on the size of the cheetah. Worming your cat each month, if you do it by yourself, will cost around $45 to $75 and flea prevention will cost $120 to $250 a year per cat depending on its size.  Since you can’t bring a cheetah to a local vet, be prepared to have a vet come to your residence, which can greatly increase the costs depending on how far you live from the vet’s office.

Tips to know:

Cheetahs are streamlined cats that weigh between 88 to 140 pounds and measure about three feet in length, excluding the tail. They are covered in a striking black and orange spotted pattern.

Like a dog, cheetahs are said to need the same stimulation to keep them happy.

The cheetah inhabits the grasslands of central, eastern and south-western Africa, and also a small portion of Iran.

A cheetah can live about eight years on average in the wild, even though 17 years is not rare in captivity.

A young cheetah is referred to as a cub. A cub will stay with their parents until they reach about a year and half old.

Breeding a cheetah is extremely hard; in fact, less than 40 percent of zoological facilities succeed.

Unlike other big cats, cheetahs are quite selective about the animals that they hunt (for instance, small to medium-sized species of antelopes). The cheetah kills its prey by tripping it and biting the neck. It weighs around 100 pounds on average, has a smaller head and does not possess the muscular bulk of the other big cats.

How can I save money?

If you like the look of a cheetah, consider the Egyptian Mau, a cat breed that closely resembles a cheetah.  This cat breed is legal and can be much cheaper to maintain.

Consider adopting a cheetah.  While you won’t “own” the cheetah, you can help this threatened population.

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How Much Does a Bald Eagle Cost?

The bald eagle has been the U.S. national emblem since 1782.  Being a spiritual symbol for the native people in America for far longer than that, this regal bird is not really bald, but its white-feathered head gleams in contrast to its chocolate-brown body and wings.

In flight, the bald eagle holds its broad wings flat similar to a board. The bald eagle dwarfs a majority of other raptors, including the Red-tailed Hawk and the Turkey Vulture.

Once endangered by illegal hunting and poisoning through pesticides, bald eagles have really flourished under protection.

Bald eagles live near water bodies in Canada and Alaska, as well as in scattered locations throughout the lower 48 states and Mexico.

“Bald Eagle” (CC BY 2.0) by brendan.lally….away

How much does a bald eagle cost?

In the United States, all native migratory birds, such as the bald eagle, are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.  Eagles are further protected by various federal and state laws. It is illegal for one to have a protected bird in their possession unless an owner has the required permits.  Even the feathers are illegal. These permits are often offered to licensed wildlife rehabilitators that help for injured, sick and orphaned wild eagles, and permits are not offered for the purpose of keeping a bald eagle as a pet.  If interested, however, bald eagles are often valued at $3,000 to $5,000 from the research we did.

What are the extra costs?

You must have a special eagle permit, as mention, in addition to bald eagle rehabbing permits, which can cost around $500 to $1,000.

Even though fish is the primary food source for a bald eagle, they also feed on other animals and birds such as squirrels, prairie dogs, raccoons, and rabbits.  The average eagle will need to feed on at least a half of pound of food each day, but they don’t need to eat daily as they can store food in an area known as a crop.  Feeding a bald eagle can cost about $100 per month depending on the source of food.

A bald eagle habitat, when in captivity, needs to be considered.  This can include perches, trees and an atmosphere that mimics their natural surroundings.  A habitat can be compared to one as seen here.  The cost of a building a habitat can greatly depend on the size and inclusions but don’t be surprised it costs more than a thousand dollars to build.

Tips to know:

The average bald eagle weights eight to nine pounds and measures 34 to 43 inches long.  Its wingspan is close to seven and a half feet.  Males are slightly smaller than females, according to h20power.com.

In 2007, the bald eagle was removed from the Federal Endangered Species list, but they are still protected under other Federal Acts.

During breeding season, both the male and female work together to build a nest of sticks, generally located at the top of a tree.

The bald eagle is the only eagle that is unique to North America. The eagle’s distinctive brown body and its white head and tail make it easy to identify one from a distance. When flying, Bald Eagles very rarely flap their wings but instead soars, holding their wings almost completely flat.

The bald eagle has a large head, heavy body, and long, hooked bill. An adult bald eagle has a white head and tail with dark brown body and wings. Its hooked bill, legs and feet are bright yellow in color. Immature birds have got mostly dark heads and tails and their brown bodies and wings are mottled with white in diverse amounts.

The young birds will mature in five years.

The main habitat is near lakes, marshes, reservoirs, rivers and coasts.

Contact your local Department of Natural Resources of Fish and Game for more information if you’re interested in becoming a wildlife rehabilitator.

Even when in captivity, a bald eagle can live more than 30 years.

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How Much Do Uber Rides Cost?

Uber is a way, as you may know, to call for a car using a mobile phone app.  Just like a taxi, but more technologically advanced, you can get from point A to point B within no time.

“Uber e táxis em São Paulo” (CC BY 2.0) by nuclimeditorial

How much does an Uber ride cost?

The cost of an Uber ride will compromise of a few parts to determine your fare:  the base fare, the time inside the vehicle, the distance being traveled, the booking fee and if a surge variable in in effect.

To help you understand the fees in most cities, refer to our table below to see what you may be charged.  This is the AVERAGE price you may be charged.

NOTE:  You can receive an exact estimate by following this official Uber.com link or by opening up the app and inputing the destination you want to arrive at.  Once verified, the app will show you the multiple car options and price before you accept.  Simply input your address and Uber will offer an estimate based on your destinations and car choice.

In Chicago, for example, the rates for UberX is $0.95 per mile, $0.20 per minute, $1.70 for the base fare and the minimum fare is $4.60.

In Houston, an UberX is $0.93 per mile, $0.11 per minute, $1 for the base fare and the minimum fare is $5.75.

The different types of Uber

UberPOOL — An option where you share the ride with other riders requesting an Uber.  Seats up to two people.   The Express Pool option, available in some cities, is similar, but only one person can use it.

UberX — The budget option that offers an everyday car for up to four people.

UberXL — An XL can seat up to six people, but these cars won’t be required to be black or a higher-end model.

Uber BLACK — Known as the original Uber luxury service, the Black option is a higher-end sedan that seats up to four people.

UberSUV — A luxury SUV option that’s usually the most expensive option.  The SUV will seat up to six people.

Uber TAXI — In some cities, this is a taxi service that has an agreement with Uber.

Uber WAV — A wheelchair accessible vehicle that’s able to accomodate a customer’s wheelchair with either a lift and/or a ramp.

Uber SELECT  — Similar to Uber Black, but the car doesn’t have to conform the to the Black standard.  A step up from the UberX, Select will often be a higher-end sedan with lower prices.  The only requirements, according to Uber, is that the car must have leather seats.

Uber ESPANOL — The same service as UberX, with the exception of the driver being able to speak Spanish for the custoemr.

Uber ASSIST — Designed to provide additional assistance for people who need it, such as a senior citizen and/or someone with a disability.  These drives are specfically trained with the Open Doors Organization and their vehicles are able to accomodate wheelchairs, scooters and walkers.

Uber PLUS — An option that’s considered to be slightly better than an Uber Black.  With this option, you can expect a midrange car that seats upt o four people.

What are the extra costs?

During in-demand periods, such as after a professional sporting event or a concert, Uber may use the surge pricing feature, which will multiply the fares mentioned above by the current surge amount.  These surges, depending on the demand, can vary from 1.1x to more than 9.9x+  If there were a surge, then you would multiple your fare by the surge amount.

A cancellation fee, as mentioned, can be applied if you were to cancel an Uber and not show for the ride.  This fee will often be around $5.

While optional but appreciated, you can tip your driver after the ride is over.  This can be done after selecting a tip amount.

Tips to know

Uber does not charge per person, only per ride.

Can you request a specific uber driver?  The app, as of 2017 does not allow you to request a specfic Uber driver; it will always ping the closest driver available.

How far will an Uber take you? According to drivers and Uber, there isn’t a limit per se, but as a common courtsey, it’s best to call your driver ahead of time to see if they are willing to take the trip.  Remember, they more than likely have to drive back to their home, putting a lot of unpaid miles on thier car.  This can, of course, be offset by a larger-than-average tip.

How can I save money?

If you’re a new driver, you can always look for promotion codes as they are always readily available.  For example, at the time of this publishing, there were countless $15 free credit options.  Consider checking out Groupon.com or even Coupons.com.

Raise.com offers Uber gift cards at a discounted rate.

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