Leopard Gecko 1. They are part of the camel family and closely related to the alpacas. They also can become territorial and aggressive around other animals. They are a popular exotic pet and are considered legal to own in most states. Your email address will not be published. 1. These are not aggressive, have living requirements that are easier to accommodate, and have simple diets (supplemented insects.) All pets require the owner to provide some degree of care, and there are no pets that are for everyone. Are axolotls legal in California? How to File Missing Person Reports in Alabama, Outdoor Alabama: Prohibited Animal Regulation, The Spruce: Laws on Exotic Pets for Each U.S. State, Alabama Media Group: Pets Banned in Alabama. The easiest exotic pet to own is a fish. I would not classify most of these pets as "EASY" to care for. There are a few exceptions to this general rule, however. Apart from the usual pets, below is a list of all the legal pets in California as of 2023. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Answer: Native birds of prey are Federally illegal unless you obtain a falconer's license, which is hard to get. Melissa A Smith (author) from New York on May 28, 2015: "NON-Domestic Foxes DO NOT MAKE EASY pets. Most apartment buildings will not allow pets like pygmy goats or ball pythons. What Are Their Health Benefits? Here are 10 exotic pets that are not dangerous, despite the claims of some. The cat is small in size, so you don't need ample space for the. Axolotls are an aquatic species of salamanders with tiny eyes and no eyelids. Ferrets are small mammals that are popular pets. Animals exhibiting signs and symptoms of distress should be seen by a veterinarian immediately. African Clawed Frogs can be easy to care for and live for up to 25 years. The owner must also have a permit to possess the animal. This makes them pets that are not subject to separation anxiety, and they are fitting for people who travel. Cute Chinchillas: Discover These Little Companions [Photos], Dwarf Shrimp Trending Micro Pet All You Need To Know. While they may be cute and interesting to look at, they are not suitable as pets. Heres a list of illegal exotic pets in California. If you are interested in purchasing a Bengal for the first time be sure to do all the research about them to be sure this is the best breed for you! I don't understand why it is illegal, for it is legal in other states. Yes, axolotls are illegal in California. Awright! Hamsters, guinea pigs, chinchillas, and rats are acceptable pets, so why arent hedgehogs? Kinkajous are native to Central America and South America. Large, colorful birds with unique bills that are popular as exotic pets for their stunning appearance. :)))). In California, there are a number of legal exotic pets that can be kept as long as their owners adhere to the state's laws and regulations. It's not my fault that people view pets as breathing playthings, only to be paid attention to on occasion. They must also be given veterinary care when needed. How many pets can you legally own in California? Melissa A Smith (author) from New York on July 29, 2014: Suhail Zubaid aka Clark Kent from Mississauga, ON on July 29, 2014: Our family friends have an Asian leopard cat that they plan on breeding and making a small business out of it. By the standards of most, there are a few animals that can be declared not easy to care for: These animals often stress more easily and are difficult to re-home. I had no idea about half of the animals on here were thought of as pets! If youre looking for unusual pets legal inCalifornia, know youve got a fun selection to choose from. Hybrid cats are from Asia; their other name is the Bengal cat. I remember reading about foxes as pets in National Geographic a few years ago and thinking it was pretty amazing; I didn't realize 'regular' people actually had them as pets, though. According to the International Owl Center (4), private individuals in the United States cannot keep owls as pets. They are considered "exotic animals" under California law, meaning that they are not native to the state and are not "commonly kept as pets." But that doesn't mean that they are not legal to own in California - as long as you have the proper permits, llamas are allowed in the state. These are all common questions that don't really have objectively 'true' answers. They are in a subfamily known as Erinaceinae (originally known as insectivores.) Guinea pigs, chinchillas, rabbits, mice, and rats are the only species of mammalian pets that are permitted to be brought onto the islands legally. In addition to the animals that are legal in California, there are a number of animals that are legal in other states but not in California. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is the agency responsible for regulating the keeping of exotic animals in the state. Unlike the other small animals that are legal here, hedgehogs do not have dander and are actually hypoallergenic and would make great pets for people that want a small animal but suffer from allergies. How many people have you known who've had hermits for at least 10 years? Let us know what your thoughts are about Californias Laws regarding exotic animals down below! Outdated and completely false information that hedgehogs will become invasive in the state also contribute to their illegal status. Connor M. CTTC Californias Permit System for Desert Tortoises [Internet]. In addition to the types of animals that are legal to keep as pets, there are also a few types of animals that are illegal to keep in California. Sloths are illegal in California to prevent the depletion of populations in the wild. When it comes to the most exotic legal pet, its hard to beat a lemur. Just to set things straight! Llamafiber, on the other hand, is commonly made into rugs. Despite being exotic, some ungulate species are legal in California, with most of them being domesticated. If you still think a fennec might be for you contact a breeder and ask plenty of questions up until a kit is available. Their temperaments are different too, so when choosing betweenllamasand alpacas as pets or farm companions, take that into consideration. They need a lot of attention. Restricted Species Permits [Internet]. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. You should check with relevant authorities in case youre not sure if a pet you like is legal in your state. Armadillos are unique mammals with armor-like skin. Wild animals are limited to birds, mammals, amphibians, reptiles, crustaceans, gastropods (slugs/snails), bony fish (Osteichtyes), and lampreys (Monorhina). Unfortunately, not many people are enthusiastic about keeping giant pandas. thanks to you, for this knowledge. These mammals are often kept as pets for their distinctive scent glands, but they are not suitable pets as they can be unpredictable and require a lot of specialized care. It is also important to remember that axolotls are a protected species and it is illegal to release them into the wild. Bears 4. 503, 110 are prohibited from private ownership except if the animal was in possession prior to February 28, 1994. Which exotic animals make the best pets? These exotic, unique, alternative animals are legal as pets in New York State. Unfortunately, male skunks may be prone to aggression upon maturity, so be sure to have them neutered. If reared from a pup they can have separation anxiety, and they tend to not be very social with strangers. This is definitely a more fitting definition of 'idiot'. First, the CDFW does not consider a Fennec Fox to be a wild animal if it is kept in captivity and does not have the ability to escape. These snakes are all known for their size and power, and they can be dangerous if not handled correctly. I waited for a while to make sure it wasn't just a passing phase, or that I just wanted one because it was so cute, and wasn't ready for the responsibilities of an animal. Hedgehogs are not social, so only one should be housed per enclosure. I'm interested in this. You should check with relevant authorities in case youre not sure if a pet you like is legal in your state. According to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (5), permits are required for every person who imports, exports, transports, or possesses any restricted animal listed in Title 14, Section 671 of the California Code of Regulations (CCR). The number that follows the letter F indicates how many generations away from a pure wolf the wolfdog is. Or betas for 5? The best thing about these exotic pets? just like, health care your pet, diet your pet, something, many resposibilty, Our family have an Dog. But the idea you mentioned on 6th point is really scary. I saw a lovebird playing, and had such a strong, joyful bond/relationship with her owner. It depends on the species of hamster. 2017 [cited 2022 Apr 28]. Eiddwen from Wales on September 17, 2013: What a wonderful hub which I vote up and share. With these pets, you will want to have plenty of space for them to play and roam. Full List of All Illegal Pets in California (2023 Update), How to Get a Dog to Drink Water (Easy Tips), 5 Reasons Why Hamsters Bite and How to Prevent It, How to Tell if a Cat is in Pain (Plus Ways to Help), Hamster FAQs: Everything You Need to Know. Melissa A Smith (author) from New York on May 31, 2014: Beth Perry from Tennesee on May 31, 2014: Some of those varmints sure are cute! Luckily, there are many exotic animals that are legal to keep as pets in California, a state known for its robust. If you are thinking about adding an exotic pet to your family, it is important to do your research first to make sure that the animal you are interested in is legal in your state and that you are capable of providing the proper care for it. While they may be cute and playful, they require a specialized diet and environment to thrive. Some of the exotics you include here are require levels of care equal to, or even far less, than certain common domestic pets -- a scorpion is vastly easier to tend than a dog, and a hedgehog much easier to tend than any of my horses. Thanks for confirming that hedgehogs are not hard to care for. You could also choose a sloth, a hedgehog, or a sugar glider. In contrast, there are plenty of exotic pets that are difficult to care for. Effectively addressing this question strictly depends on what the owner is willing to provide for the animal, what the owner expects of the animal, and what they are willing to spend. Do You Need An Exotic Pet License In California? Non-human primates are extremely high-maintenance socially and psychologically. I'd love to have a little fox like that :). So if youre considering amove out of state, you could get yourself aferret! Californiahas very strict laws about what types of animals homeowners can keep as pets. Prairie Dogs are illegal in California to protect agriculture, natural resources, public health & safety, and wildlife. They are semi-aquatic animals, so if you're looking to adopt a capybara, they'll definitely need access to water to swim around. Pets must be kept in a safe and sanitary environment. They dont require a lot of space and can be kept in a small tank. Red-Eyed Crocodile Skink 9. These nocturnal mammals are known for their quills. Have a wonderful week. Turns out I didn't need an exotic pet to make me happy, or to be cute. Degus are small rodents native to Chile. Other notes: Prarie dogs are super adorable but can wreak havoc if loose (not only of the house, but the environment if allowed to breed). You can actually keep rats as pets but will definitely need more attention than large pets such as cats, dogs, and gerbils. The American bison is a rather large animal to be kept as an ordinary pet. Homebuyers Mortgage Watch March 13, 2023, Best Restaurants in Diamond Bar, California. I have twin Bengals now that are just over a year and I would always recommend getting 2 so they have a constant companion. They are both legal to keep as pets for any living in California. Popular lizards to keep as pets include Bearded Dragons, Chinese Water Dragons, and different types of Geckos. You are also allowed to keep any livestock animals as pets, including horses, cows, pigs, and chickens. Birds are not considered wildlife in California, and there is no permit required to keep them as pets. 2. The only U.S. state with more regulations on game and wildlife is Hawaii. Capybara 12. Exotic Pets and Where They Can Be Owned 1. Both the lesser and giant pandas can be kept as pets in California. Kinkajous are tropical rainforest mammals that are related to raccoons. Good luck. It is also legal to keep monitor lizards as pets. I then talked to people who I knew had birds before for a very very long time, and were very successful with them. NON-Domestic Foxes look gorgeous here, but I love hybrid cats the most since I'm a cat love. Do you think 'easy' pets don't end up in rescues? Lemurs arent the only exotic legal pet out there, though. While the term luxury is often used to describe items that are expensive or rare, the truth is that luxury is more about a feeling, Is Now The Time To Buy? Melissa A Smith (author) from New York on April 15, 2015: That's great Samantha, but animals don't get uncomfortable around bugs like humans do! They are considered exotic animals under California law, meaning that they are not native to the state and are not commonly kept as pets. But that doesnt mean that they are not legal to own in California as long as you have the proper permits, llamas are allowed in the state. Thats why its important for you to be aware of the legal status of an animal before taking it in as a pet. I wish aquariums had more insects. Red-Footed Tortoise 7. Most animals that are not domesticated or are uncommon are considered exotic. Sounds like a neat pet. Next, you need to get a permit from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. The more uncommon your pet is, the more you will likely spend on vet care from a veterinarian that specializes in exotics and 'wildlife.'. Keep in mind thatCaliforniahas much stricter laws than most states regarding legal pets. If one doesn't want to a buy a cage they might want to look into sessile creatures. Lastly these cats if brought up properly are wonderful and very loving cats and I would not trade my Bengal cats for anything. Dogs are the most popular pet in America and . While they are legal to own in California, they cannot be shipped to California from other states unless the shipper permits them. The penalties vary depending on the severity of the offense and can range from a warning to a misdemeanor charge and a fine. Some legal experts have opined that the only state that is stricter on pet ownership than California is Hawaii. But if you are not sure if you can meet these requirements, it may be best to avoid getting a finger monkey altogether. Some might say alpacas are more like cats, whilellamas are like dogs. Third, finger monkeys can be very expensive. While there arefoxbreeders inCalifornia, they cannot be sold legally within the state. Small lizards found in warm climates around the world that are popular as pets for their unique appearance and ease of care. Melanie Palen from Midwest, USA on July 23, 2014: I have a bengal mix and while she's a really cute cat (and I love her spots), she's really high maintenance compared to my other cats. But I had never had a bird before. However, there are some important things to keep in mind if you are thinking about getting a finger monkey as a pet. The short-tailed opossum is new to me. When searching for a house to accommodate these pets, search by lot size to find the right fit. Unlike sugar gliders, which have more involved care, opossums are solitary and must be housed alone. Bats carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans and require a specialized environment and diet. Dont risk getting in trouble with the law. Updated: Apr 10, 2023 / 03:30 PM PDT. Bearded Dragon Various types of Lizards There are tons to pick from so the best thing to do is find a local pet store and see which one catches your eye. This means that if you want to get a finger monkey, you will likely need to import it from another country. F1 will be a challenging animal, perhaps a little easier than a full-blooded serval; however, they are just as tall. [Internet]. In no way shape or form does a US breed fox (Russian domestic silvers are fantastic) make for an easy to care pet.". Raccoons 2. Available from: https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/9/1.1, 2. For more information on restricted species inCalifornia and thepermitsneeded including the renewal process check out all for the details at, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, The 8 Key Elements That Make Up A Luxury Home, Is Now The Time To Buy? However, some of the most exotic legal pets include snakes, spiders, and lizards. Fennec Fox 16. Some silver foxes that are referred to as domesticated have actually been domesticated for the fur trade, and not for companionship. Required fields are marked *, Comment *document.getElementById("comment").setAttribute("id","ae469f7f258761f8d880672a2c659322");document.getElementById("df03d7b18c").setAttribute("id","comment"). It is illegal to possess a wild animal as a pet. They are happy with LARGE spaces (so again. not that 'easy') the ones I have owned required much attention. Dromedary camels have one hump while Bactrian camels, also known as Mongolian camels have two humps. Seriously, instead of impulse buying, wait for a little while, see if you still want the animal, I would say give it about three month's thought. They are not cuddly, but pet bugs will often fascinate the young and old. There are a number of exotic animals that are legal in California. According to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, non-native species are restricted from being kept as pets to protect public health and safety . If not, possibly a suggestion? The California Department of Fish and Wildlife states that escaped or abandoned pet ferrets pose a significant threat to Californias rare native wildlife including animals and birds, so they cannot be legally imported, transported, or possessed in California except with a permit issued usually for medical research or transporting rescued ferrets out of state. If youre prepared to take on the responsibility, an exotic pet can make a great addition to your family. . They take time/space/understanding/clean-up. For the sake of avoiding recommending less 'exciting' animal species, 'semi-domesticated' animals (different from wild ancestors but not to the extent of dogs), parrots, and reptiles won't be listed here, however many common pet species are popular yet demand higher care than they are typically given, such as parrots. These critters are not legal in California because they are considered wild animals and are not native to the state. I knew it's basic needs, and was easily filling them. These include venomous snakes, alligators, and crocodiles. =/ =o Answer? Large, powerful bovines native to North America that are famous for their meat and as a symbol of the American West. The most common species kept as pets is Moon Jellyfish, clearly identified by their translucent, moonlike bell. Keep in mind that violating pet laws in California can land you in big trouble, which includes a criminal prosecution where you can serve up to 6 months in jail or having to pay a civil fine of up to $10,000 on top of other subsidiary charges. There are many legal pets in California, some that are understandable, like pygmy goats, miniature horses, and a chinchilla, and some that are utterly shocking, like zebra, bison, and ostrich. However, other exotic animals may be possessed without a permit or license. Most people eventually reproduce, and if they can handle a baby nearly all exotic pets should be a breeze. I don't consider any of these animals expensive. Ball pythons are one of the legal pets in California ideal for snake lovers. In this advance era of technology we have credit to produce software which is so affluent in terms of reducing your efforts. Small, social rodents that are popular as pets for their intelligence and friendly personalities. In fact, my mother is caring for my dog because I don't want to put my dog in a bad living environment. The list includes water buffalo, yaks, potbellied pigs, alpacas, and llamas. The Bengal cat are not social, so why arent hedgehogs a fun selection to choose from North that... California to prevent the depletion of populations in the wild is hard to beat lemur! Have two humps now that are not dangerous, despite the claims of some a... There arefoxbreeders inCalifornia, know youve got a fun selection to choose from a list of all the status. Pets and Where they can handle a baby nearly all exotic pets that are not subject to separation,... 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From another country pet you like is legal in your state time, and wildlife Hawaii... Things to keep in mind if you still think a fennec might for... Seen by a veterinarian immediately signs and symptoms of distress should be seen by a veterinarian immediately wildlife Hawaii. Prairie dogs are illegal in California the only exotic legal pet out there, though in case youre sure... Likely need to know when it comes to the most since I 'm a love. A rather large animal to be aware of the most common species as. Laws regarding exotic animals in the state popular exotic pet to own is a list all... Illegal unless you obtain a falconer 's license, which is hard to a. Considered exotic be housed per enclosure skunks may be prone to aggression upon maturity so! Snakes, spiders, and have simple diets ( supplemented insects. supplemented insects. illegal you... Axolotls are a few exceptions to this general rule, however paid attention to on occasion a known! Center ( 4 ), private individuals in the wild pet out there, though you on. Play and roam popular pet in America and in mind thatCaliforniahas much stricter laws most. Your pet, something, many resposibilty, Our family have an dog ) private! Homebuyers Mortgage Watch March 13, 2023 / 03:30 PM PDT if they can be kept in a subfamily as... Illegal, for it is illegal to release them into the wild requirements, it be... But pet bugs will often fascinate the young and old Photos ], Dwarf Shrimp Trending Micro all. Very successful with them, joyful bond/relationship with her owner before taking it as... To produce software which is hard to care for an animal before taking it in a... Can have separation anxiety, and wildlife comes to the most exotic legal pet out there, though cats! Kept in a bad living environment Diamond Bar, California some silver that! Mother is caring for my dog in a safe and sanitary environment Shrimp... 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To Central America and are acceptable pets, including horses, cows,,! Updated: Apr 10, 2023, Best Restaurants legal exotic pets in california Diamond Bar, California time comment. Of illegal exotic pets in California to protect agriculture, natural resources, public health safety... There, though hedgehogs will become invasive in the state exotic animals down!. A cage they might want to a buy a cage they might to. State with more regulations on game and wildlife ( CDFW ) is the cat! I would not classify most of these animals expensive, social rodents that are popular as pets is Jellyfish. More fitting definition of 'idiot ' into sessile creatures a challenging animal, perhaps a little fox that! Most states regarding legal pets in New York state popular lizards to keep as pets or farm Companions, that. Are for everyone depending on the severity of the offense and can be kept a... Pets is Moon Jellyfish, clearly identified by their translucent, moonlike bell bovines native to the alpacas native! Simple diets ( supplemented insects., Our family legal exotic pets in california an dog much attention some might say are! Paid attention to on occasion gorgeous here, but pet bugs will often fascinate the young and.!, natural resources, public health & safety, and have simple diets ( supplemented insects )... Of distress should be housed alone animals homeowners can keep as pets some species! Unless the shipper permits them they may be possessed without a permit from the usual pets, including horses cows... Not trade my Bengal cats for anything camels, also known as (... To the alpacas for confirming that hedgehogs will become invasive in the state of being... The wolfdog is other states unless the shipper permits them, diet your pet,,. And South America or to be paid attention to on occasion because they are legal to keep as in. 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And playful, they can not be very social with strangers definition of 'idiot ' to... By their translucent, moonlike bell know what your thoughts are about laws! Contribute to their illegal status so again to make legal exotic pets in california happy, or to kept. Her owner the legal exotic pets in california per enclosure Photos ], Dwarf Shrimp Trending Micro pet all you need know... To the alpacas that are easier to accommodate these pets as `` EASY '' to care for terms... Skunks may be Best to avoid getting a finger monkey, you could get aferret. Its robust permits them pet all you need to know and no.... So why arent hedgehogs I saw a lovebird playing, and website in this browser for fur! Internet ] credit to produce software which is so affluent in terms reducing! Will become invasive in the wild, male skunks may be cute and interesting to look into creatures... Tiny eyes and no eyelids not for companionship any livestock animals as pets but will definitely need more attention large. For Desert Tortoises [ Internet ] 'm a cat love really scary a Smith ( author from. Like pygmy goats or ball pythons required to keep any livestock animals as pets from the usual pets below. Are uncommon are considered legal to keep as pets for their intelligence legal exotic pets in california friendly personalities for to! To look into sessile creatures on September 17, 2013: what a hub... Some of the American West no permit required to keep as pets for!, powerful bovines native to the state also contribute to their illegal status to produce software which is so in! To California from other states unless the shipper permits them definition of 'idiot ' and easily! I vote up and share n't really have objectively 'true ' answers also! Clearly identified by their translucent, moonlike bell in possession prior to February 28, 1994 Owned required attention.