Being a pet parent can be an expensive affair, especially if your choice of furry or feathery friend is on the exclusive side. From grandiose horses to rare birds, we uncover the top 10 most expensive pets in the world and shed light on what makes them so coveted.
1. Green Monkey - A Record-breaking Racehorse
The Green Monkey, an American thoroughbred racehorse, holds the record as the most expensive pet ever sold. He fetched an astronomical $16 million in a 2006 auction. Despite his high price, he never won a race, making him a pricey investment with little return.
2. Tibetan Mastiff - Majestic Mountain Dog
Known for their imposing stature and noble appearance, Tibetan Mastiffs are one of the most expensive breeds of dog. In 2014, one was sold in China for a staggering $2 million. With its status as a luxury status symbol in China, it's no surprise that this breed commands such high prices.
3. Sir Lancelot Encore - The World's Most Expensive Puppy
Sir Lancelot Encore, a Labrador retriever clone, was created after his owners paid an astounding $155,000 in 2009. The original Sir Lancelot died in 2008 and his DNA was used to clone the first ever commercially cloned pet, making him an unprecedented scientific marvel.
4. Stag Beetle - The Mighty Insect
Stag beetles might not be everyone's idea of a pet, but in Japan, they are collected and traded for significant amounts. A rare, beautifully vibrant stag beetle was sold for $89,000 in Japan. Their unique ability to fly and their mighty, antler-like mandibles make them a fascinating if unconventional pet.
5. White Lion Cubs - Royalty of the Animal Kingdom
White Lion cubs are not your average pet. These majestic creatures are extremely rare and hence, highly valuable. In 2011, a cub was reportedly sold for $140,000. Owning a white lion cub is subject to rigorous regulations and ethical considerations, greatly adding to their cost.
6. Ayam Cemani Chicken - The All-black Wonder
The Ayam Cemani Chicken, an Indonesian breed famed for its exotic all-black color, including its meat and bones, can fetch up to $2,500. This breed is thought to bring good luck and is often used in sacred rituals, making it a high-value, sought-after chicken breed.
7. Palm Cockatoo - The Prized Parrot
Known for their impressive crests and beaks, Palm Cockatoos are native to Australia. A rare bird with dramatic colors and an ability to live up to 60 years, they can fetch a cool $16,000. Their high price reflects their long lifespan and captivating personalities.
8. Savannah Cat - The Exotic Feline
Savannah Cats are a popular breed among pet enthusiasts due to their unique appearance and behavior which is a mix of a domestic cat and the wild serval. Prices can range from $1,500 to $22,000, depending on factors like generational distance from the original Serval cat.
9. Chimpanzee - The Intelligent Primate
Chimpanzees are known for their intelligence and human-like behavior, which makes them a popular but controversial pet. While owning a chimpanzee is heavily regulated, they’ve been known to sell for as high as $60,000. Their care requirements and complex social needs contribute to their high price.
10. Arabian Horse - The Symbol of Elegance
Arabian horses, known for their endurance and distinctive beauty, are one of the oldest and most highly priced horse breeds. Apart from their uses in racing and show-jumping competitions, they're also highly prized as pets. Their price can extend from $5,000 to upwards of $100,000.
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