5 Exotic Animals You Can Legally Own

Move aside dogs, cats, and fish! Now a days zoos aren’t the only place you will find wild and exotic animals. You may be able to find one in your own neighbourhood! It’s estimated that over 20 million Americans own some sort of exotic animal. Some animals will make you question why anyone would want to keep one in their house, while other’s will make you want to look up where to find one due to an overwhelming amount of cuteness!

Pet owners now want something more, something unique to help them stand out from others. When some hear “exotic” they think wild and dangerous. Exotic actually refers to a species that is not native or indigenous to the owner’s location. There are many sites available to check your state laws regarding private ownership of exotic animals.

Almost all animals are legal in the United States, however due to injuries, danger of extinction, escapes, and health concerns, each state has its own laws in regards to which exotic animals you can own. For example, close to two dozen states including Vermont, California, and New Hampshire ban exotic animals so make sure to do plenty of research and double check with your state government. Also, certain animals may be legal, but require a license to own.

Below are a list of 15 exotic animals that you can legally (depending on your state) have as pets. Prices range from $.25 to an upward of $60,000.

1- Tarantula- $15

While some people will run screaming out of the room when they see a tarantula, others walk towards them with glee. Tarantula’s are found everywhere except Antarctica and have a lifespan of 10-25 years. Their sizes range from as small as a fingernail to as large as a dinner plate. Having 8 legs and 2 fangs can be quite intimidating, but there is good news- Tarantula’s rarely bite people. There are many to choose from, but the “Chilean Rose-Haired Tarantulas” are the most popular to be kept as pets. Mainly because they are large and easy to tend to.

2- Sugar Glider- $200

These cute little marsupials come from the same general family as a Kangaroo. The Sugar Glider’s origin is Australia, Papua New Guinea, and Indonesia. They live 10-15 years, reach about 7 inches in length and weigh only about 6 ounces. They get their name for their love of sweet foods and the ability to glide through the air.

Sugar Gliders have become popular as exotic pets because they are incredibly social, and bond easily with humans. It’s best to get two or more sugar gliders if you cannot be home a lot to keep them company. Reason being- they love interaction, and if they are deprived of social interaction they will become sad to the point where they will die. While these cute flying marsupials may sound like a perfect pet be advised… they can be stinky, talkative and since they are nocturnal they will be up all night, making noise. But at least they will be interesting company as they glide throughout your house!

3- Kinkajou- $2,000

Part of the raccoon family, these fascinating mammals come from the rainforests of Central and South Africa. The Kinkajou has a lifespan of 20-25 years, with a maximum recorded lifespan of 41 years. Also known as “honeybears”, they are incredibly affectionate and get along marvelously with humans. Kinkajous are becoming more popular as an exotic pet due to their playful and docile demeanor. Many describe a Kinkajou as having a baby bear cub face with an otter body.

4- Serval- $2,500

This is not your typical housecat. Servals come from Central and Southern Africa and have a lifespan of up to 19 years. They weigh up to 40 pounds and stand close to 2 feet tall. Servals are the most successful hunters of all wild cats, and are the fastest running cat aside from the cheetah. Like other cats, the Serval can purr, as well as chirp, hiss, growl, grunt, and meow.

Servals are gaining in popularity in the exotic pet world. Despite their wild, predator demeanor, they are many out there who have been raising Servals since they were a baby.

5- Squirrel Monkey- $8,000 (For Babies)

From the tropical forests of Central and South America, the Squirrel Monkey may be the most adorable exotic pet of them all. They usually weigh only about 2 pounds, and are lots of fun, playful and energetic. The Squirrel Monkey is highly intelligent, social and super affectionate, making them popular with exotic animal owners. They have the largest brain out of all primates, so house-training should come easy to these little cuties.

Be careful though, Squirrel Monkeys spread their urine on their feet, hands, and sometimes all over their body to help mark their path. The Squirrel Monkey can cost you upwards of $8,000 for a baby, and be prepared to spend lots of time and attention as they demand it almost constantly.

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