I don't know about that. I think that it's the 'fly by night herpers' that are driving down the prices for a quick buck. When they run out of babies, consumers will have no choice but to pay the $300 for a Panther from the solid breeders. Market crashes are everywhere right now, reptiles or not. But, I do believe that $200 won't be the norm for Panther prices. When the reputable Canadian breeders stick to their $300 for a baby, that's what the actual market price is. People pay for quality.
I'm familiar with the adds you're talking about Derrik, and I also know that for the most part, these people aren't responsible breeders, they won't be around forever. Patience and persistance will pay off with it though. The people that hold strong during the 'attempted price crash' are the people that will come through victorious in the end.
On the same note, Panthers, as well as other Chams, are bred in much larger numbers here in Canada than they were five years ago. Of course the price is bound to come down a bit. But so what if it does? I work with what I enjoy, even if the market drops Panthers down to $100 (which it won't), I'll still keep them, possibly breed them if there's enough demand for them still, becuase I enjoy them!! The money is not an issue for me. As long as the cost of their food is covered, who cares. For me, it's a hobby, not a buisness.
If you want to take a look at a crashing reptile market, take a look at Leopard Geckos and Ball Pythons. There's an issue. Chams isn't really an issue yet. They're much harder to produce than alot of geckos, snakes and what have you. Therefore, the price will always be higher.
