Dart frogs in the UK typically cost between £50 and £120 each, depending on the species, availability, and breeding difficulty. Rare morphs or species that require more intensive care may be priced higher.
The UK Dart Frog Market: Limited Supply, High Interest
The dart frog market in the UK is small but growing, with only a few active breeders and sellers. Because of this, prices are often set by a limited number of people and reflect factors such as breeding difficulty, species rarity, and availability.
If you’re looking to buy dart frogs in the UK, you’ll quickly find that prices are far from fixed. Instead, they fluctuate based on how often a species breeds, how they raise their young (especially if they’re obligate egg feeders), and how many are available at any one time.
At Frogfather, we only work with breeders who are transparent about their pricing and breeding methods. That means honest information about lineage, parentage, and care—something that helps customers buy with confidence.
Average Dart Frog Prices by Species
| Species | Typical Price (Each) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dendrobates leucomelas (Bumblebee) | £70–£80 | Easy to care for and fairly common |
| Dendrobates tinctorius (Various morphs) | £85–£90 | Stunning morphs like Azureus or Cobalt |
| Ranitomeya variabilis (Borja Ridge) | £70–£80 | Small but active and vocal |
| Dendrobates auratus (Green & Black) | £50–£60 | A good beginner species |
| Oophaga pumilio (Punta Laurel) | £70–£120 | Prices vary greatly by locale |
| Tadpoles (various species) | ~£20 | Affordable but require rearing knowledge |
Why Are Some Dart Frogs More Expensive?
1. Breeding Difficulty
Species like Oophaga pumilio are obligate egg feeders, meaning their tadpoles need to be fed unfertilised eggs by the parents. This makes them far more difficult to breed in captivity and drives up their price.
2. Rarity and Demand
Limited import availability and restricted breeding mean some morphs or locales are highly sought-after. If only a few are available in the UK, expect prices to reflect scarcity.
3. Reproduction Rates
Some species lay more eggs and raise froglets quickly. Others breed seasonally or need complex setups to encourage reproduction. Fast breeders are usually cheaper.
4. Ethical Breeding Practices
Frogs from transparent, well-documented pairings often command higher prices. Buyers are more willing to pay for peace of mind when they know the frogs are healthy and ethically bred.
The Most Expensive Dart Frogs in the UK
- Oophaga pumilio (rare locales): £120+
- Phyllobates terribilis (Golden Poison Dart Frog): Often rare and priced high due to difficulty sourcing
- Dendrobates tinctorius ‘Tumucumaque’: A rare morph with high demand
Where to Buy Dart Frogs in the UK
You can find dart frogs through:
- Reputable breeders like those partnered with Frogfather
- Amphibian expos and specialist reptile shows
- Online stores such as frogfather.co.uk
- Dart frog hobbyist groups (some offer local pickups or swaps)
Always check the seller’s reviews, ask about the frogs’ lineage and age, and make sure they provide proper care info.
FAQs About Dart Frog Pricing
Q: Are dart frogs expensive to keep?
They can be. The frog itself may cost £80, but vivarium setup, lighting, misting, and live food can add up.
Q: Can I buy a pair or group at a discount?
Some breeders offer discounts for groups or froglets. It varies by seller.
Q: Why are tadpoles cheaper?
Tadpoles require time and care to raise. Buying them cheaper reflects the responsibility you’re taking on.
Final Thoughts
Dart frog pricing in the UK is influenced by species rarity, breeding complexity, and availability. While some frogs cost around £50, rare species can exceed £120.
At Frogfather, we aim to offer healthy, ethically bred dart frogs and tadpoles, and we’re always happy to talk through availability and pricing.
Explore current listings: frogfather.co.uk/dartfrogs
Got questions? Get in touch via the contact form or email thedon@frogfather.co.uk
