15 Animals You Cannot Legally Own as Pets in the US

The US, celebrated for diverse wildlife, has strict rules on owning exotic pets. While pets like dogs and cats are welcome, laws prohibit some animals due to unique needs or potential danger.

Zebras

Zebras are illegal pets in Nevada and many states due to their potential danger to humans and pets, and the requirement of large land, specialized diets, and special care.

Lemurs

Owning lemurs is banned in Ohio, Nevada, Florida, and North Carolina. They require ample care, attention, and space, and can transmit diseases like ringworms and salmonellosis to humans.

Skunks

Skunks, illegal to own in states like California, New York, and Massachusetts, can be dangerous and destructive as pets. Domesticated ones often escape, causing issues.

Turtles

Owning various turtle species, including red-eared sliders, is illegal in the US. They can carry salmonella, posing risk to humans. Some states also prohibit sales due to declining wild populations.

Chausies

Most states deem owning Chausies, hybrid cats bred from wild jungle cats and domesticated cats, as illegal. They can be dangerous, unpredictable, need strict diets and lots of roaming space.

Bengals

Bengal cats, a mix of Asian leopard and house cats, are banned in 19 states due to aggression, destructiveness, and their large size up to 15 pounds.

Sugar Gliders

Sugar gliders, Australian marsupials, can't be owned in CA & PA due to their special diet, extensive care, and nocturnal noisy nature.

Monkeys

Owning a pet monkey, while legal in some states, is mostly seen as illegal and unethical. They need specialized care, pose health risks to humans, and have specific social needs.

Ferrets

In California and Hawaii, owning ferrets, small mammals related to weasels, is illegal due to their potential as rabies carriers and aggressive behavior.

Hedgehogs

Hedgehogs are popular pets but banned in states like California, Georgia, and Hawaii due to health risks like salmonella and their specialized care needs.

African Clawed Frogs

African Clawed Frogs, native to sub-Saharan Africa, are often illegal as pets because they require specialized care, can carry diseases, and as invasive species, can disrupt ecosystems.

Fennec Foxes

Fennec foxes, Sahara's smallest fox species, are banned as pets in most states due to their specific dietary, environmental needs, and habits of digging and marking territory.

Gerbils

Gerbils, native to Asia, are banned as pets in California due to disease risks to humans and other pets and their specific social and dietary needs.

Jackrabbits

Jackrabbits can't be legally owned in most states due to potential diseases and parasites. Their large size (up to 6 feet) makes care and housing challenging.

Quaker Parrots

Quaker parrots from South America are banned in many states due to risks to agriculture and the environment. If released, they adapt quickly and can invade ecosystems. Special care and large enclosures are needed for their well-being.

More From Inspired by Insiders

Snakes are feared due to their lethal venom. Many species can cause human death within hours of a bite. Learn which snakes & where to find them here.

10 Animals With the Most Unusual Mating Rituals

Explore 10 unique, intriguing animal mating rituals which highlight their diverse strategies for reproductive success. 10 Animals With the Most Unusual Mating Rituals

20 Fascinating Facts About Animals You Didn’t Know

Discover the unexpected with our list of 20 mind-blowing animal facts that showcase the wonders of nature. 20 Fascinating Facts About Animals You Didn’t Know.

13 Disturbing Facts About Dolphins You’ll Wish You Didn’t Know

Dolphins, known for their intelligence, playfulness, and loyalty also have a darker side. These 13 facts will alter your view on them: 13 Disturbing Facts About Dolphins You’ll Wish You Didn’t Know.

11 Wild Animals That Enjoy Playing With Humans

Humans bond with animals, from pets to wildlife. We've listed wild creatures that love interacting with people. [Read More] Article via Inspired by Insiders.