The Most Exotic Legal (Maybe) Pets

The range of exotic pets available in the US is astonishing. More astonishing is exactly why Joe Shmoe wants to own and care for potentially dangerous animals which also require extensive care. But nonetheless, they’re out there they love them some exotics. The federal government has some laws pertaining to particular species being imported and/or owned, but most legislation and permits are done through State governments. Check this list if you’re interested.

Serval

Considered to be one of the best pets of the wild cats, they grow to around 20-25 lbs. In addition they require a lot of attention and most brokers will not sell to homes with children (now what’s that tell ya?).

Zebra

Cared for similarly to a domestic horse these animals need lots of space. On average an adult weighs 900lbs and lives approximately 35 years in captivity. Really? Who is really willing or responsible enough to care for a pet for 35 years? Christ, my parents kicked me out of the house at 18…that’s half the time.

Alligator Snapping Turtle

With a name like that won’t little Susie be so excited to play with her new pet! In nature, this turtle lives on the bottom of rivers and attracts prey by opening its mouth and wiggling its pink tongue. As the fish swim closer to get a better look, SNAP! A mature adult can reach 200lbs and eat an entire duck in one gulp.

Wallaby or Wallaroo

Both of these are considered small kangaroos. Wallaby range from 12-45 lbs. with certain varieties being nocturnal (just a reminder to do your research before purchasing an exotic pet). Wallaroos are slightly larger, 40-100lbs. Both supposedly bond well to humans if hand raised.

Tiger

Here is a direct quote from exoticcatz.com, “While it is sometimes possible to own a tiger, there are difficulties, expenses, regulatory issues, and dangers that most people don’t realize, and in most cases owning a tiger is a delightful but unrealistic fantasy.”

Although their is a wide variety of exotic pets out there, most seem to require lots of space. Which makes sense because they’re wild animals and used to roaming the wild. So unless you have serious cash (some animals sell for thousands of dollars) for cages, pens, feed (or raw meat), vet check ups, and registrations don’t even think about it.