The wolf was later euthanized. The state also defines all non-domestic animals consisting of wild cats, wild dogs, bear, and primates as live game.. While owning an exotic pet is not banned in South Carolina, there is no formal list of exotic animals that are legal to own inThe Palmetto State. - Banned pets: lion, tiger, ocelot, cougar, leopard, cheetah, jaguar, chimpanzee, orangutan From birds and amazing amphibians to creepy crawlies and marsupials, there's a lot of cute adorable animals that you could take home. The United States is very strict about which pets you're allowed to own. In some locations, you can have a pet squirrel or kangaroo while other places you cant have a pet bunny. Current State Big Cat Laws. There are no laws regarding monkeys, wolves and other animals. Wild Animals/Exotics. - Banned pets: unregistered dangerous wild animals including ocelot, leopard, monkey, tiger, bear, wolf Although its not common, sometimes these tiny foxes with oversized ears are kept as pets. ), among others. Salvador Dali owned a pet anteater and you can too. Those who want to have exotic animals as pets in Pennsylvania must get a permit from the state wildlife commission. No hazardous wild animal is to be possessed, owned or bred in Iowa. Animals are categorized into classes. States That Allow Pet Monkeys. Under certain conditions, however, wolves are allowed. Bears, big cats, and primates are included in the list of prohibited animals to own in this small state. All they need is a cage, food, water, and a nice place to hide. Fennec foxes are the smallest breed of fox, and their giant ears just take the cuteness level over the edge. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. The state of Ohio considers hippopotami, Komodo dragons, and howler monkeys, among other animals, dangerous. Theyre beautiful and amazing creatures but exotic pet ownership comes with some exotic issues. What about capuchins, javas or spider monkeys. If a legally owned wild animal poses a threat to public safety in some way, law enforcement can confiscate it. Wild animals are not enabled to be kept as pets here. You might not own deer, bears, moose, or wild turkeys. If youre away from home for long periods of time, maybe you should think getting a pair. How much does it cost to own a fennec fox? I have already made lists of legal exotic pets inArkansas,Georgia, Montana, and Florida. With a tough to pronounce name, the Hyacinth Macaw are very interesting birds. They can grow quite large, sometimes in excess of 20 feet and weigh even over 250 pounds. - Banned pets: wolf, hyena, leopard, bear, primate, crocodile, cobra, python - Banned pets: coyote, wolf, tiger, lion, non-native bear, great ape - Banned pets: possession of dangerous animals regulated by cities and counties - Banned pets: bear, wolf, tiger, lion, leopard, jaguar, primate, fox Not technically they just need to be well fed and cared for and enough space to at least roam around you, they dont need a whole jungle. What characteristics allow plants to survive in the desert? You must have an exotic pet license to own an exotic pet in Oklahoma. Chicago, IL No more monkeys as pets in Illinois. While an exotic animal may be legal to keep as pet in one state, another state may prohibit it. A Serval is an African wildcat that is legal in some areas of the US. For instance, Serval cats are legal in Alabama and Michigan but not in Colorado and Georgia. Dwarf Pigs are simply adorable. They are super social, but this can be both a good thing or a bad one. Legal exotic pets come with stringent requirements, including registration fees, inspections, insurance coverage, and a "written recovery plan" in the event that the animal escapes. - Banned pets: big cats, all non-native canidae species, primates Arkansas Exotic Pet Laws. Large carnivores (lions, tigers, and bears) are prohibited from owning. Class, I animals are prohibited from having and consisting of bears, big cats, rhinos, crocodiles, and primates. NEW BANS import with intent to sell, sale, offer for sale, purchase, barter, or possess with intent to sell of parts and products of cheetah, elephant, giraffe, great ape, hippopotamus, jaguar, leopard, lion, monk seal, narwhal, pangolin, ray or shark, rhinoceros, sea turtle, tiger, walrus, or whale when listed on CITES Appendix I or II or endangered or threatened under Endangered Species Act. Colorado law notes that there is "growing interest in the private possession of live wildlife" but also "considerable confusion over the laws regarding such private possession." This state needs authorizations for wild mammals and hybrids. A 2010 law forbids importing, offering, and launching non-native types. Those who break the law face a fine of up to $500 and/or a prison sentence up to 30 days. Theyve got an average lifespan of up to 10 years if cared for properly. You have to purchase the fox from another licensed breeder and you must keep and maintain records of the purchase, sale, and propagation of your foxes [SOURCE: City-Data.com States That Allow Foxes as Pets (breeder, legal, rescues, tortoise)]. So, the point of this article is to list the top exotic animals that are legal to own in each state. These are separated into Class I for squirrels and rabbits, Class II for a range of mammals, and Class III for unsafe exotic animals including large cats, bears, wolves, hyenas, venomous reptiles, gorillas, Burmese pythons, anacondas, and more. Washington bans many of the usual suspects: bears, certain types of snakes, and the like. - Banned pets: big game animals, trophy game, wolf, wolf hybrids Kansas bans large cats, bears, and non-native venomous snakes. A mature male chimp will grow up to 150 pounds and can be twice as strong as a human being. - Banned pets: cheetah, monkey, ape, gorilla, kangaroo, lemur With a deep and honest fascination for the open road and the places that get left behind, hes often wandering off the beaten path. Illegal animals are described as inherently dangerous animals. PERMIT required for intrastate transport live grass, black, bighead and silver carp and tilapia and non-approved speciesPERMIT required for import of live trout, salmon or charLIST (3/11/15): See Aquatic Life Approved Species ListPERMIT: PERMIT and health certificate within last 30 days required to import mammals, birds and reptiles for those under Animal Welfare Act, GRANDFATHERS: Primates owned on 1/1/2011 if 1) registered with local animal control by 4/1/2011 with name, address, phone, type of primate, age, photo, description of tattoo, microchip or other identifying information and list of current inoculations, 2) notification of address change within 30 days, and 3) immediately notifies of escape, death, bites or scratches, Single capuchin assisting person with severe mobility impairment if registered and from 501(c)(3) organization, Felines: lion, tiger, leopard, ocelot, jaguar, cheetah, margay, mountain lion, lynx, bobcat, jaguarundi, Dangerous animals plus civets, servals, poisonous reptiles, life-threatening reptiles over 6 and hybrids except AKC, UKC, CFA, or TICA registered breeds, Turtles and eggs in violation of Public Health Service Act (carapace over 4) and Lacey Act (prohibited acts) including possession. They are also smart and love to play and climb around and they need proper training from a young age. Owners of these and other prohibited "potentially dangerous" animals must have "extensive experience in maintaining" the animal, submit a written statement of purpose for ownership, and meet other requirements in order to obtain a permit. Fish and Wildlife's Lacey Act (18 U.S.C. No monkey laws exist in this state; however, you do need authorization for having wild animals. New York statutes list the fennec fox as a companion animal. Hawaii: Peafowl. And caring for one is similar to caring for a hamster or guinea pig. Class I animals (chimps, gorillas, cheetahs, and so on) are outlawed as pets, but there are no guidelines on monkeys and small wild cats. Big-game and trophy animals are banned in Wyoming. Make sure your fences are up to the task of keeping them inside. However, a permit is not needed to own a fennec fox (Vulpes zerda). Who is responsible for humanistic psychology? Theyre also more active during the night, so make for perfect little friends for night owls. Permits to own these and other banned animals are only given to research institutes, public displays, or organized entertainment such aszoos or circuses. As long as youre able to care for the animal financially, youve done homework on legality, and able to provide a habitat that is as close to what it would be in the wild for its enrichment, then sobeit. Owner beware: Your pet mongoose is not welcome here. Peacocks are legal in all fifty states. Stacker distribution partners receive a license to all Stacker stories, Can you own a monkey in Illinois 2021? BANS release of injurious speciesLIST (5/18/15): (17 Illinois Admin. - Banned pets: general wildlife, wildebeest, raccoon, hedgehog, monk parakeet as well as image rights, data visualizations, forward planning tools, How much does a pet fennec cost? - Banned pets: "regulated animals" including bear, tiger, cheetah, leopard, monkey, lemur (exceptions apply) Unless you were grandfathered in, you could not own a primate, bear or cougar in this southern state. Armadillos, Moles, Norway rats, Eurasian collared doves, and Feral pigeons are legal to own inKansas. In North Carolina, counties and cities can, by ordinance, regulate, restrict, or prohibit the possession of dangerous animals. - Banned pets: beaver, coyote, raccoon, skunk, wolf, venomous reptiles Chinchillas are rodents as well, and are known for being among the more destructive ones. A "nontraditional livestock advisory council" reviews special license applications. It's illegal to keep a kangaroo as a pet in the preponderance of the United States. the animal is in the position to harm another animalthatpermit can be suspended. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. Interested parties must apply for licenses from the Director of the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, who will observe your competency and capabilities of caring for wildlife. 21 states ban all dangerous exotic pets, while the rest allow . It is illegal for a person to possess non-domesticated cats, primates, crocodiles, alligators, and wolves. While Illinois law says its illegal to have a monkey or another primate as a pet, the local owners can own the pet under a clause allowing lawful possession for those who had primates before Jan. 1, 2011. Permits are required in Vermont to own restricted wild animals. You might still own primates, monkeys, elephants, wolves, and non-domesticated cats without a permit or license. This state has restrictions for owners of limited pets that they obtained before the law changes in 2005. In doing so, youre agreeing to the below guidelines. Otherwise, they are prohibited from owning as pets. - Banned pets: wildcat, primate, any canine not indigenous to Oregon This includes a wide variety of animals, from amphibians to reptiles to mammals. In Virginia, it's illegal to own non-native exotic animals that are considered predatory or undesirable as a pet. Non-native poisonous snakes are also specifically banned. And a little toilet. All animals are subject to a veterinarian exam and must be free of any contagious, infectious, epidemic, or communicable disease. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission. Laws regarding the ownership of exotic animals as pets vary by state in the United States. - Banned pets: tiger, lion, monkey, crocodile, leopard BANS the keeping, harboring and caring for dangerous animals and primates. If you were to engage in any of the regulated activities listed above . By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. Bears, monkeys, wolves, and live game animals are banned. Dwarf Pigs are hypoallergenic, so theyll be the perfect friends for allergic people. Texas requires a certificate of registration to own what it considers dangerous wild animals. - Banned pets: bear, moose, wild turkey, deer, lion, cheetah, wolf, monkey, camel, alligator, monk parakeet, mute swan Wolves, coyotes, peccaries (certain species related to pigs), bison, mountain goats, mountain sheep, bears, turkeys, and furbearers are also banned. Chinchillas, Guinea pigs, and Ferrets are legal to own inNebraska. These include bears, large cats, wild canines, and more. 9 Animals That Are, Surprisingly, Legal To Own in Michigan. Liability laws for dog bites: Pennsylvania dog bite laws hold owners fully responsible for damages caused by dog bites. The federal law has its list of exotic animals, which includes the most common tigers, lions, leopards, bears, wolves, and venomous snakes. Permits are required for some wildlife. In the state of Louisiana, certain "potentially dangerous" quadrupeds, big exotic cats, and non-human primates are considered to pose "significant hazards to public safety and health" and are deemed "detrimental to the welfare of the animals." They have the playful energy of a dog and the independent streak of a cat, so they can make wonderful pets. Wild cats, bears, raccoons, skunks, foxes, primates and other unique pets are not enabled. Snakes that are 12 feet or longer are also prohibited. Oregon residents cannot apply for exotic pet permits (last issue 2010), and therefore, it is illegal to own a wild cat (non-native) or bear (except black bears) or non-native primates or crocs. Required fields are marked *. You must acquire a license for the exotic animals that are listed as unique wildlife by the state. Idaho law prohibits any non-native animal that is determined to be "dangerous to the environment, livestock, agriculture, or wildlife of the state." Kansas - Banned pets: lion, tiger, leopard, jaguar, bear, non-native venomous snake Simply get authorization, and you can own whatever animal you d like. There are no licenses or licenses required for ownership of exotic animals. - Banned pets: lion, leopard, cheetah, wolf, coyote, black bear, grizzly bear, brown bear Ohios laws have changed given that the Zanesville massacre in 2011. It is illegal to have a unique animal, specified as wild cats, bears aside from black bears, canines foreign to Oregon, alligators, crocodiles, or caimans unless you had a permit before the law was enacted. In Maine, a permit is required to own most wild birds or animals. One thing you need to consider though is their potential size. Illinois prohibits the ownership of designated "dangerous" animals with special exceptions for zoos, federally licensed exhibits, circuses, scientific or educational institutions, research laboratories, veterinary hospitals, or animal refuges. Those who own legal exotic animals in . Other states require simple permitting of the exotic . BANS possession, propagation, purchase, sale and transport of injurious species. and more. Harmful animals are not allowed to be kept as pets unless you are a zoo, accredited circus, or other appropriate company. The following exotic animals can legally be kept as pets in Missouri: Margays,Jaguarundis,Ocelots, and Macaques. The following animals are considered dangerous under state law: lion, tiger, leopard, ocelot, jaguar, cheetah, margay, mountain lion, lynx, bobcat, jaguarundi, bear, hyena, wolf, coyote, and any poisonous or life-threatening reptile. The state generally bans owning any species of wildlife native to Colorado, as well as exotic animals. Bruno Vincent / Stringer / Getty Images However, you can keep a non-human primate. Legality As with other exotic pets, coatimundis are regulated by law. No longer exempt from Aquatic Life Code and Dangerous Animal Act. Find out what your states exotic pet laws are here with these exotic pet law summaries but be sure to double check with your local government before getting your pet to make sure the laws havent altered. Permits are needed for poisonous or large restricting snakes. Finches and cockatiels are commonplace when it comes to pet birds, but a number of people care for exotic birds as pets, too. Non-domestic pigs and raccoon dogs are specifically prohibited in South Dakota. Without permits, people in Indiana cannot own the following: foxes, raccoons, skunks, wolves, bears, wild cats, venomous reptiles, or crocodiles. Animals that fall under this category include bears, all non-domesticated cats, ferrets, and more. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. 2014 introduced the last phase of the new laws. Via/Henry Lai - Upsplash - henry-lai-DMqSMHlbwlo-unsplash. - Banned pets: bear, tiger, leopard, monkey, ape, wolf, poisonous reptile, monkey In Maine, foxes (including Fennec foxes) are legal to obtain and possess as long as you receive a legal permit from the USDA. - Banned pets: bear, lion, tiger, wolf, gorilla, monkey Permits are not required to own chipmunks, rats, squirrels, weasels, and pocket gophers, among other species. Animal species that may become extinct in our lifetime, What breakfast looks like around the world, 100 best films of the 21st century, according to critics, https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/?ref=chooser-v1. Special permits are required for exotic animal ownership in Nebraska, but some animals are still not allowed no matter whatnamely,bears, tigers, leopards, wolves, and skunks. From the newest supercars, amazing yachts, luxury homes and exquisite watches, to high-end hotels and resorts from all over the world and the latest trends in tech and fashion. Ifyou own six or more bobcats, you're out of luck in Arkansas. We carefully research, review and endorse only the products and brands that we adore and believe you'll appreciate as well. In Massachusetts, state law warns that wild animals, "regardless of whether or not they are born in captivity, often revert to their wild nature when sexually mature and can do considerable harm to persons." Just clear tips and lifehacks for every day, Illinois. While these are the state laws, there may likewise be local, city, and county laws that also use. . However, other exotic animals may be possessed without a permit or license. 2 How do I get a fox as a pet in Illinois? Thatspecific amount of bobcats is prohibited, as areany lions, tigers, bears, rabbits, quails, apes, baboons, and macaques. If you wish to own among the animals on this states list of harmful wild animals, you must register it with the county in which the animal is kept. BANS possession, take, transport, sale, giving away or disposal of endangered and threatened species. republish under a Creative Commons License, and we encourage you to If convicted of breaking this law, you face a fine of no less than $100 and the revocationof your wildlife license, if you have one. Some species can be temporarily released for the purpose of hunting or falcon training. Information - name, address and phone of applicant and business or institution and supplier, common and scientific name, size and total per species, anticipated date, HACCP/BMP recognized management plan (minnows and bait only), May import only to facility or approved location, PERMIT required for intrastate transport live grass, black, bighead and silver carp and tilapia and non-approved species, Aquaculture Facility Permit (import/possess aquatic life for food sales or stocking), Aquaculture Permit (propagate/grow/harvest aquatic life for food or stocking), Restricted Species Transportation Permit (transport non-approved aquatic life), Salmonid Import Permit (import trout, salmon, char), Aquaculture facility plan (non-approved species), NOT capable of overflowing into state waters, NOT in 100-year flood plan unless approved, Drainage only into municipal water treatment facility, on-site waste treatment facility with sand filtration and chlorination or as approved, Animals from states with declaration of disaster if examined in 24 hours (health certificate only). Axolotls are generally considered inexpensive exotic pets with an initial cost of around $30 to $100; that too for basic and juvenile axolotls. Alaska, Hawaii, and California have the strictest laws regarding the purchase and sale of exotic pets. Consequences for violating the law are more severe here, where it's considered a misdemeanor; if convicted, you are subject to up to $1,000 in fines. The Squirrel Monkeys make for super interesting pets. Sure, cats and dogs are the most common and easy to find pets, but theyre not the only animals you could have running and jumping around your house. We all know pets are adorable creatures and having one around us can easily improve our mood and life in general. It is illegal to "fail to exercise due care in safeguarding the public from attack by exotic wildlife," and anyone who violates that lawissubject to penalties including fines. This is specified as non-domestic cats and dogs, bears, primates, various reptiles and more. Fish and Wildlife's Lacey Act (18 U.S.C. They weigh about 20-40 pounds, which makes them about the size of a medium dog. Prairie dogs are legal to own as pets in Illinois. A Wallaby needs a lot of outdoor space, so you need to make sure youve got it before getting one. BANS release, holding, possession, and engaging in raising of San Juan rabbits or raccoon dogs. Primates are not allowed as pets unless they remained in possession before 2011 and had been signed up. Do you need underlay for laminate flooring on concrete? Guinea pigs, hamsters, andSugar gliders are legal to keep as pets in the state ofMaine. Bearded Dragon. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Alabama. Washington State does not list exotic animals that are allowed to keep as pets. On the other hand though, their energy seems to be infinite and they love to play a lot. In Kentucky, "inherently dangerous" exotic animalsincluding primates, tigers, lions, bears, alligators, and honey badgersare prohibited, unless they were owned before July 13, 2005, when the law was enacted. African hedgehogs,Sugar gliders,Llamas,Alpacas,Weasels,Chinchillas, andGuinea pigs are legal to possess as pets inIdaho. 6 states do not ban or regulate keeping big cats as pets : Alabama, Nevada, North Carolina, Wisconsin, Delaware, and Oklahoma. No one can have, sell, import or export live game animals (any types of bird, mammal, or reptile, consisting of a feral domestic animal, found or introduced in the state, except local birds and mammals). 1. People can only own exotic animals with special permits. Native species can only be possessed by zoos and temporary exhibitors, while residents can own animals such as rabbits, chinchillas, and llamas without a permit. Michigan devotes several provisionsto the regulation of wolf-dogs in memory of Angie Nickerson, a 5-year-old who was killed by the animal in 1989. Exotic animals are illegal in Hawaii. - Banned pets: orangutans, macaques, mandrills, baboons, hyenas, elephants But in states like Illinois, Kansas, and Vermont, you can only keep venomous or non-venomous reptiles for . If you're a reptile enthusiast, you should know that it's legal to own a desert night lizard with a permit, but the Glen Canyon chuckwalla (a relative of the iguana) is banned. Due to this reason, theyre considered a great exotic pet. Well, that until they start crawling around some hard slippery surface. Hedgehogs are legal in Illinois as long as they are purchased from a licensed pet store. - Banned pets: ape, bat, gibbon, raccoon, skunk, alligator; more than one large bear or large cat without permit Hawaii explicitly bans the "uncontrolled" introduction of exotic animals, which present "serious danger to the agricultural, horticultural, and aquacultural industries, natural resources, and environment of Hawaii." via/ karlumbriaco. Primates, venomous reptiles, bears, wolves, and other animals are restricted. Public zoos, university research facilities, governmental agencies, transient circuses, and rehabilitation or sanctuary facilities may be exempted from the permit, if the exemption is approved by a commission. MaZiKab. The law warns that the "size and strength of such animals in concert with their natural and unpredictable and/or predatory nature can result in severe injury or death when an attack upon a human occurs." It is likewise illegal to possess bears, non-domestic cats, and primates. Boas, Pythons,African pygmy hedgehogs,Gerbils,Hamsters,Sugar gliders,Agoutis,Tegus, andCollared lizards are legal to keep as pets in the state ofVermont. Usually legal to own in most states, there are few, like Missouri, Minnesota and Washington, where theyre illegal. C ODE ch. They come from Central and Southern Africa and can live up to 19-20 years. Its like a Leopard in miniature, due to their extremely famous fur. They can reach up to 40 inches in height and 60 inches in wingspan, so expect a lot of strength on their side. Compared to many of the exotic animals on this list, they make great pets, especially for those who have done their research and are ready to dedicate their time. Because this species has caused injury to humans and can transmit diseases, many places outlaw them. GRANDFATHERED: Herptiles owned on the effective date for which a Personal Possession Permit was obtained within 30 days, AZA or ZAA public zoos or aquaria (must follow T/E), Licensed veterinarians or those under them, Law enforcement and animal control officers, Motion picture and television production using USDA dealers, exhibitors and transporters, May be suspended or revoked for violation of US law and may have privileges suspended or revoked for violating US law within the state (Public Act 102-0837 Signed into law 5/13/22 Effective immediately), Herptile Scientific Collection permit (research, take or salvage native nonlisted species for scientific purposes) - FREE, Herpetoculture Permit (unlisted native - possess over limits, commercialize captive-born or breed) - $50, EXEMPT: Non-indigenous unless otherwise required by law, Nonresident Limited Entry Herpetoculture Permit (nonresident sales of captive-born unlisted native) - $25, Herptile Special Use Permit (resident educational programs; sell and breed special use herptiles) - $250, Limited Entry Special Use Herptile Permit (non-resident educational programs) 15 days - $25, Herptile Endangered and Threatened Species Propagation permit (possess, propagate and sell legally obtained IL endangered and federal ESA species), Take limited to hand, hook and line or bow and arrow (except in counties prohibited), BANS taking by commercial devices or firearms, air guns or gas guns, Those not intended to be kept must be kept and counted in the daily catch creel or bag no culling, Take limited to hook and line, gig, pitchfork, spear, bow and arrow, hand or landing net, Unlisted herptiles may be taken by hand (excludes using as bait), Captured herptiles not kept must be released at site of capture except lethal method, Possess 8 all other herptiles with no more than 4 per species, Captive-born offspring not for commercial use exempt from limits for 90 days, Must restore all habitats to original position if moved, BANS take of herptiles in LaRue-Pine Hills/Otter Pond Research Natural Area along with bowfishing for common snapping turtles in counties of Randolph, Perry, Franklin, Hamilton, White, Gallatin, Saline, Williamson, Jackson, Union, Johnson, Pope, Hardin, Massac, Pulaski and Alexander, EXEMPT: Non-mobile, permanent institutions and facilities, Bona fide state or public scientific, educational or zoo institutions, Breeding mink, red fox or arctic fox (agricultural pursuit) if defined as farmers for IRS and 20% of gross farm income from those species.