Exotic pets vary from a tiny turtle to a huge cat. They are generally wild animals that are found in different areas of the world. They aren’t domesticated.
The care of exotic animals is a challenge. They can live for years require large enclosures and require a specific diet. A pet that is exotic must be legal in the state you live in however, you may require specific permits.
Yet the exotic animals are becoming more more well-known due to their distinctive looks.
If you are thinking that an exotic pet is the right choice for you, read on to find out which pets are allowed in your state.
The Most Exotic Pets
18. Serval
Servals are part of the feline family, and can be located throughout southern Africa.
Small wild cats sport an agile and slim body that is covered with dark brown stripes and brown spots. While they are adorable pets however, their appearance isn’t an adequate reason to own one.
This exotic pet isn’t suitable for a cat that is not experienced. Domestic house cats usually is a more suitable pet.
They are timid and night-time creatures. They require a home owner who has the space and commitment to take care of them. This means having a huge enclosure, which is fenced in, as well as a pool. The fence must have a top and will need to go some feet deep into the ground, as servals are fond of to climb and dig.
They are best kept outdoors however, they may be brought into homes provided there’s nothing in the area that could be at risk of breaking.
Servals are great pets. They are extremely fun cats, and they are known to be warm and friendly for their pet owners. They tend to be tame when they are fed and supervised by their owners.
| Maintaining A Serval | |
|---|---|
| Legal States | Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Tennessee, Texas, Nevada, Idaho, Wisconsin, Alabama, North and South Carolina, West Virginia, North and South Dakota, Oklahoma, Arizona, Indiana, Pennsylvania and Maine. |
| Illegal States | Ohio as well as Hawaii. |
| Price | From $1,500 to $3,000 |
17. Fennec Fox
Fennec Foxes are mostly found in the Sahara Desert. They’re extremely content in dry, sandy desert-like surroundings. They’re not suitable for everyone, but especially for those who reside in Hawaii!
The fox looks like a playful dog However, they are wild animals with wild instincts. They possess dog and cat-like characteristics.
Many love their small size and gorgeously oversized ears.
Despite their cute appearance, they are uninvolved and not the most snuggly.
Similar to Servals, Fennec Foxes are timid and night-time creatures. They are not suitable for novices and they aren’t always easy to take care of them.
Fennec Foxes need large outdoor enclosures as well as plenty of room to exercise. If they are properly cared for they could live up to 14 yearsold, however they require a higher commitment to live them a long and healthy life.
| Keeping A Fennec Fox | |
|---|---|
| Legal States | Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming. |
| Illegal States | Hawaii, Missouri, Minnesota, Nevada and Washington. |
| Price | Between $2,000 and $3,500 |
16. Hyacinth Macaw
Hyacinths are the biggest parrots in the world weighing around three pounds.
Hyacinth Macaws look stunning wild parrots, renowned for their vibrant blue feathers. They generally have black beaks with yellow markings on their faces too.
The birds originate from South America and live in tropical forests, mainly close to the Amazon River. It is unlawful for export of Hyacinth Macaws from South America however their numbers are continuing to decline because of illegal exports and destruction of habitat. Because of this, Hyacinth Macaws are classified as an endangered species. They are best purchased from breeders who are captive.
This bird is beautiful exotic pet, however it shouldn’t be kept by anyone.
Hyacinth Macaws require an owner who has knowledge of exotic bird care that is committed to helping keep the species in good health.
They are gentle, friendly and easy to train. They can form an unbreakable bond with their handlers over a period of at least 50 years.
Macaws do need a large space. A majority, if certainly not all, cages for commercial use aren’t big enough for this species of bird. If you leave your bird’s cage for the entire the time is not a healthy way to live. Ideally, the bird is best kept in an aviary that is large. They are highly clever, which is why they require plenty of space and lots of activities to take part in.
| Maintaining A Hyacinth Macaw | |
|---|---|
| Legal States | Alaska. |
| Price | From $500 to $10,000 |
15. Porcupine
Porcupines are known for their quills which they use for defense when threatened.
Porcupines are rodents that can be found in much areas of United States. In some areas, they consider themselves to be a nuisance however, they can be used as exotic pet, too.
It is advised not to attempt to keep wild porcupines. Like other exotic animals, they aren’t particularly affectionate, and they can also be territorial, and are likely to fight for their lives.
Porcupines usually range from dark brown to black , with quills which are white in color.
If they don’t feel threatened, their quills will be smooth and you will be able to gently stroke their back.
The animal requires someone who has had experience in caring for animals that are unusual. Their caretaker must be capable of reading animal body language as well.
They’re best suited to people who have had the experience of caring for various kinds of animals like rodents as well as other wild animals located throughout the United States.
| Maintaining A Porcupine | |
|---|---|
| Legal States | Kansas, Minnesota, New York and Wisconsin. |
| Price | Between $800 and $1,000 |
14. Egyptian Tortoise
This species of tortoise is also known as the Kleinmann’s Tortoise.
It is the Egyptian Tortoise is a rare species of tortoise.
As compared to the exotic animals featured on this list, they’re wonderful pets, particularly when you’ve completed their homework and are prepared to devote their time.
These adorable tortoises are about 6 inches in length. They typically have a golden-brown hue and have dark brown markings on their shells. The tortoises don’t enjoy being handled, however they are still friendly and love to wander around.
The thing that makes tortoises so difficult to handle is the fact that they require constant maintenance to ensure they are healthy.
They are susceptible to becoming sick and their owner is uncertain of how to take care of them.
If taken care of properly, Egyptian Tortoises are able to be around for 100 years..
They need the owner to be willing to commit their entire life towards their pets. They’re ideal for those who have cared for pet reptiles prior to.
| Keeping An Egyptian Tortoise | |
|---|---|
| Legal States | Every State – when purchased through an US breeder. |
| Price | Between $500 and $1,500 |
13. Capybara
The Capybara is located within South America.
The Capybaras, also known as the largest rodent in world They can grow to over 3 feet high and weigh as much as 150 pounds!
They resemble giant guinea-pigs since they are closely related to with each. They’re typically brown in colour and possess large front teeth. They utilize their teeth to consume an hay diet consisting of timothy. This makes them simple to feed!
Capybaras are social and friendly pets. They are easy to make friends with pets of other breeds.
While capybaras are incredibly pleasant pets to be around however, they’re much more labor intensive than any other rodent.
In the first place, it is beneficial for their health to are able to share a space with. They should have other capybaras. Capybaras tend to be group pets and those who live on their own are not happy.
Additionally, due to the size of their bodies, capsybaras require lots of space. In addition to a small backyard They are semi-aquatic and require a pond, or a large swimming pool.
Despite their task they are also amusing and entertaining pets.
| Maintaining A Capybara | |
|---|---|
| Legal States | Florida, New York, Texas and Pennsylvania. |
| Illegal States | California along with Georgia. |
| Price | Between $1,000 and $3,000 |
12. Mississippi Map Turtle
This turtle grows to about 3-10 inches in length.
Mississippi Map Turtle Mississippi Map Turtle is a brown turtle that has pale white-yellow “contour” lines on its skin.
They typically are found in Mississippi. They can also be found within Texas, Louisiana, and Arkansas and in the Missouri, Mississippi, and Ohio Rivers.
Map Turtles are named for the patterns that appear on their bodies. The patterned lines look like contour lines that appear on topographic maps.
Mississippi Map Turtles are more nimble than most pets turtles However, they’re also distinctive. They are great pets for people who want to look after reptiles designed to be displayed.
Other species of map turtles that are popular comprise: Common, False, Yellow-Blotched and Ringed.
| Keeping A Mississippi Map Turtle | |
|---|---|
| Legal States | Every State. |
| Price | Between $25 and $100 |
11. Llama
Llamas make friendly pets for those who have the space and experience.
Llamas are domesticated mammals belonging to within the same animal family of camels. They are closely with goats, sheep and alpacas. The necks of these animals are long with the front teeth of their lower jaws protruding and stand around six feet tall.
It is typical that Llamas are kept in groups along their respective Andes Mountains in South America. But, they are also kept as pets in North America, Europe, and Australia.
It is not advisable to adopt an Llama when you reside in a town or a town because they won’t get enough room to be content. They need shelter and the area should be heated when it gets cold in winter. Also, they should be groomed frequently.
Llamas are very friendly, social they are easy to train at a young age.
They’re ideal for those who have owned livestock , backyard goats or sheep.
| Keeping A Llama | |
|---|---|
| Legal States | Alaska, California, Colorado, Idaho, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, Ohio, Oregon, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming. |
| Price | Between $1,000 and $5,000 |
10. Red-Eyed Crocodile Skink
Red-Eyed Skinks are found throughout New Guinea and Indonesia.
Eye-Red Crocodile Skink are a form of skink that is named for their crocodile-like appearance as well as the red rings around their eyes. They are, however, smaller and less intimidating than pets crocodiles. Yet, they could make one feel as if they are their own Croc!
These are increasingly sought-after pets for those with experience in herpetology.
The Red-Eyed Crocodile Skinks can be described as small creatures that do not require lots of space. What differentiates them among other skinks that they perform in captivity groups of friends and their unique appearance.
| Keep An Eye-Red Crocodile Skink | |
|---|---|
| Legal States | Every State. |
| Price | From $175 to $300 |
9. Chinchilla
Chinchillas are nocturnal. This means they will be active mostly at dusk and dawn.
Chinchillas are rodents of small size which have the appearance of a mouse! They have long whiskers, big ears, fur that is thick, and long tails.
It is possible to locate wild Chinchillas within the northern mountains of Chile. They are however, generally kept in captivity for pet trade. They are typically bought by people searching for a small, distinctive pet rodent.
Although they look like a mouse, they’re quite alike in the way they are treated to guinea pigs.
Chinchilla husbandry resembles the domestic rodents of many species:
- Since they have grown habitually living in dry conditions, they require frequent dust baths. The skin can become oily without these baths.
- They require a huge area to do plenty of exercise.
- They need a companion who they can interact with. You can also place them in groups since they are extremely social animals.
- The tank must be located situated in a location of the home which is cool and quiet in the daytime.
When they are handed over at an early age they are able to become attracted to their owners, and also be extremely fun. While they’re not the best choice ideal for everyone, they can be a great pet for anyone who is a fan of rodents
| Keeping A Chinchilla | |
|---|---|
| Legal States | California, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Kentucky, Maine, Massachusetts, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming ( with a permit). |
| Price | Between $150 and $300 |
8. Red-Footed Tortoise
It is the red-footed tortoise ranks as second tortoise that is exotic on our list.
Red-Foots are much more sought-after over the earlier mentioned Egyptian Tortoises because they thrive more in captive environments. They are also more easily accessible and aren’t endangered in the wild.
Red-Footed Tortoises are typically in the savannas and forest areas of Panama, Paraguay and Brazil.
The Red-Footed tortoise is a vibrant reptile to keep as a pet. They’re typically dark brown with golden-colored shell patches, and the color of orange and red around their legs and heads.
Like all tortoises require plenty of space to walk around and exercise. These tortoises are very active who enjoy walking all day. The majority of tortoise enclosures are around 10 feet in width and length. They also require warmer temperatures and plenty of sunlight.
When their cage is properly set up, the Red-Footed Tortoise can be an easy to maintain pet that can live at least 50 years the wild.
People who are new to caring for other reptiles are able to take care of these tortoises.
| Keeping A Red-Footed Tortoise | |
|---|---|
| Legal States | Every State. |
| Price | From $200 to $500 |
7. Milk Snake
Milk Snakes are fantastic pet snakes for children because they are friendly and simple to care for. They quickly become accustomed to gentle touch.
The American snakes are found in a vast native range, and are seen all the way to Canada as well as to the south of Venezuela!
They also come with a variety of colors. Milk Snakes generally blue with yellow stripes and black bands are used to separate the red from yellow. Their appearance makes them appear like a snake with exotic appearance, however, they can be mistaken for the more deadly coral snake.
Milk Snakes must be kept in a secure tank that has plenty of space to activity and warmth and light.
In general the generally speaking, Snakes tend to be a simple species that will last for between 10 and 20 years when properly managed.
| The Care of a Milk Snake | |
|---|---|
| Legal States | Every State. |
| Price | Between $125 and $500 |
6. Yellow-Bellied Slider
Yellow-Bellied Slider In An Aquarium.
It is the Yellow-Bellied Slider is one of the most well-known turtles found in the United States.
Yellow-bellied Sliders aren’t the most exotic pets since they can be often found wild throughout Florida and a variety of other states. They are nevertheless an intriguing and unique pet. The Red-Eared Sliders share a common bond, and make wonderful pets.
Yellow Sliders have darker brown or gray on their heads. Their legs and their underbelly have bright yellow and have stripes.
As opposed to tortoises, turtles are semi-aquatic.
Sliders Sliders are active throughout the day, and they spend the majority of their time in the water or relaxing. They don’t like being handled, however they are a lot of entertaining to watch.
Many turtle owners invest in large aquariums for the specie ( pictured above). As with all reptiles they also require UVB lighting and a source of heat.
Yellow-Bellied Sliders are the top turtles for new owner to have. If properly cared for, they can live up to 40 years.
| The Yellow-Bellied Slider You Keep | |
|---|---|
| Legal States | Every State. |
| Price | Between $25 and $100 |
5. Hedgehog
Hedgehogs are one of the most popular exotic pets.
Hedgehogs can be found in the wilderness of Europe, Asia, Africa and New Zealand.
They stand out for their button nose as well as the spiky quills on their backs. They are much more cuddly than other exotic pets. They are able to be taken care of by people who are new however, you must watch carefully for quills! It can take some time to become comfortable managing them in a safe manner.
The Hedgehog is an adorable and distinctive animal which is quite easy to take care of.
Hedgehogs are often housed as the hamsters or guinea-pigs within rodent cages. They love eating fruits, vegetables and occasionally, even different food items for cats or dogs.
They’re excellent pets for all levels and will live for seven years.
| Keeping A Hedgehog | |
|---|---|
| Legal States | Delaware, Florida, Maryland, Montana, South Dakota, Utah and Arizona. |
| Illegal States | Colorado, Hawaii, California, Georgia and Maine. |
| Price | Between $100 and $300 |
4. Ball Python
Ball Pythons are among the most sought-after snakes for pets across the United States. They are very gentle and are great for those who are new to the sport.
Originating originated from Africa The species is available in a range of diverse patterns and colors. The wild variety comes in various shades and patterns of brown . They can even grow to six feet long.
Ball Pythons are named after the small “ball” they curl into during their resting time or when they are feeling threatened. Regularly handling can assist your Ball Python to be more social.
Pythons are very picky eaters and, therefore, they might require a owner who is accommodating. They love eating small rodents and mice They are a great pet for those who feel comfortable feeding other pets to their pet.
Overall, they’re docile and friendly snakes. Anyone who has a passion for learning would be fortunate to own this pet.
| Keeping A Ball Python | |
|---|---|
| Legal States | The majority of states (with the permission). |
| Illegal States | Florida, New York City and Hawaii. |
| Price | 1 – $3,000 |
3. Tarantula
They might look frightening they may appear scary, however Tarantulas are actually gentle and gentle spiders.
If you are looking for an low-maintenance exotic animall and don’t suffer from Arachnophobia (fear at spiders) This could be the perfect pet!
There are more than 800 species of Tarantula that are found within South America and the southwestern United States.
A lot species of species of pet spiders come in a variety of sizes and shades. The care they receive will differ based the species you select.
Tarantulas are wonderful pets but they are not recommended to be handled. Although they’re generally gentle, they can possess a poisonous bite. This is why they require a safe and secure enclosure!
| Keeping A Tarantula | |
|---|---|
| Legal States | Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin, Wyoming. |
| Illegal States | Florida as well as Hawaii. |
| Price | Between $25 and $100 |
2. Leopard Gecko
These Geckos are named after their characteristic brown Leopard spots.
Leopard Geckos are tiny lizards which are great for keeping as pets. They’re very sought-after due to their ease of handling and their ease of handling.
They measure just 10 inches long and have gorgeous body parts that are tan and brown Leopard spots.
This kind of gecko is indigenous in the deserts and wetlands of the Middle East. It is illegal now to move them out of their natural habitat, however they are among the reptiles that are the most captive-bred in the world.
Leopard Geckos require some level of attention however, it’s an approach that anyone can master. The Leopard Gecko must also have plenty of heat and light and a balanced diet. They consume a wide variety of insects, and require vitamins as well as mineral supplementation.
In general the Overall, Geckos are incredibly easy to maintain. They can live for up to 20 years if they have right care and a pet owner who is interested in learning how to take care of them.
| Keeping A Leopard Gecko | |
|---|---|
| Legal States | Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin, Wyoming. |
| Illegal States | Hawaii. |
| Price | $50 |
1. Bearded Dragon
Bearded Dragons are the most well-known pet Lizard in the world and the most animal to have! They are fun for novices as well as experts.
The exotic Australian creatures are friendly, gentle, and friendly Lizards. They are very comfortable with handling and some even prefer to rest on the shoulders of their owners.
Bearded Dragons usually grow up to 2 feet long and range from generally yellow-tan to brown in color.
Also known as Beardies Reptiles that be around for between 10 and 15 years, and are easy to take care of.
Bearded Dragons need to reside in a suitable tank that has plenty of trees and rocks to climb and hide beneath! The tank must be cleaned every week. They are at their best when they have an owner who is interested in reptiles and has conducted their own research.
| The Bearded Dragon’s Keeper | |
|---|---|
| Legal States | Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin, Wyoming. |
| Illegal States | Hawaii. |
| Price | From $50 to $100 |
How to choose the right exotic pet
There are a lot of things to take into consideration when selecting the right pet.
Here are some tips to think about while making your decision.
Do you consider your pet legally allowed to keep within your state or city or do you require an animal license?
Permits and licenses vary between states, as well as between counties and cities. Certain animals might also be legally permitted without a permit but others do not. Keep in mind that the fact that a pet’s legally permitted to keep it doesn’t mean you’re equipped to take care of one.
Have you the knowledge and room to keep one?
Most tortoises, turtles, and birds last for more than 50 years. They’re long-term commitments. Certain animals require a certain level of knowledge that comes from many years of expertise.
The pet market is full of animals abandoned with previous owners who did not know how to care for them.
If you’re confident that you are able to take care of one of the animals you are interested in, consult an experienced breeder. They’ll have lots of experience and know-how regarding the animal they’re selling and will help you determine if you are suitable to be a keeper.
Exotic animals can be wonderful pets for those who have the right. Are you a favourite? Let us know via the comment section below!
