Exotic pets can be captivating, but it’s important to understand that not all animals are suitable for domestication. In the United States, there are numerous laws and regulations that dictate which creatures can be kept as pets due to concerns about public safety, animal welfare, and environmental conservation. Despite the appeal of owning unique or exotic animals, it’s crucial to recognize the inherent risks and responsibilities associated with such ownership. Join us as we explore the world of prohibited pets, uncovering twelve illegal animals in the US and the reasons behind these regulations.
Squirrels
In a law one might find surprising, it is illegal to own squirrels in 26 states, and even if you do have one, you often need permission if you ever want to release it back into the wild. They are banned because they often turn aggressive in captivity. Even if you did want to let one run free, their sharp claws often destroy homes and furniture.
Wolves
Owning pure wolves in the US is illegal because they can never be truly domesticated. Even if they are raised from the time they are pups, they are not tamed in any capacity. They are intelligent creatures, often evading captivity, but due to this, they are unpredictable. They sometimes display aggressive behavior and should be left out in the wild.
Lions
The size, strength, and nature of Lions make them inherently dangerous to own as pets. Even the most docile specimen can turn on you in a heartbeat, overpowering you with its incredible strength and speed. In December 2022, the Big Cat Public Safety Act was enacted, making it illegal to own lions and other big cats across the continental US.
Alligators
Ownership of these reptiles varies from state to state, with Florida being one of the states where it is legal if you have a license. Florida is one of 12 states where you need some form of permit, but it’s illegal in all others. But just because you can own an alligator in many states doesn’t mean you should. They can reach up to 11 feet in length when fully grown and inflict serious bodily harm.
Asian Arowana
The Asian Arowana is an exotic and expensive fish. They sell for extortionately high prices due to being a critically endangered species. They have deep cultural significance to Asians as symbols of luck and prosperity. A combination of being endangered and having cultural significance makes it illegal to own in the US.
Deer
Regardless of species, deer are illegal to own in most of the United States. Even in the states where they are allowed, such as Colorado and New Hampshire, ownership is subject to licenses and permits. They might look docile, but their size and temperament make it hard for them to cohabit closely with humans, even when large open spaces are provided.
Tigers
Remember “Tiger King”? The show that took over the world during the early days of COVID showed how difficult it is to own tigers, who need roughly 15 pounds of meat daily and seven square miles of space to stretch their legs. They become malnourished and aggressive if they aren’t given that high volume of food. The previously mentioned Big Cat Public Safety Act has outlawed owning tigers since 2022.
Venomous Snakes
Even if you defang snakes, owning venomous snake species in 19 states is illegal. In the case of cobras and vipers that have not had their venom removed, anti-venom is not readily available in case the owner gets bitten. Due to the dangers, they are illegal to own in most states.
Pigs
While it is trendy right now to own “Mini,” “Teacup,” or “Micro” pigs, they are actually just malnourished piglets that will ultimately grow to over 100 pounds or more. And they can become highly aggressive towards humans in adulthood. While pigs are essential for humans, they shouldn’t be kept as pets.
Eagles
Given their significance to America, eagles are illegal to own, hunt, or possess their feathers, eggs, or nests. They are protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, and owning one can result in heavy fines.
Hedgehogs
Despite their cuteness, hedgehogs are surprisingly illegal to own in California, Georgia, Hawaii, Pennsylvania, and the Five Boroughs of New York. They can be classified as invasive and can carry disease but are generally harmless, which makes this law surprising as many pet owners love caring for their hedgehogs.
Lemurs
Ownership of lemurs is illegal in Ohio, Nevada, Florida, and North Carolina. Additionally, the sale or transfer of lemurs is highly regulated in many other states. Lemurs are disease carriers, and they are often transferable to humans and vice versa. Also, it is cruel to own a single lemur since they like to live in packs. But even if you could keep them, you probably wouldn’t want to. Female lemurs emit a pungent odor to attract males, which is very difficult to get rid of.
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