Top Wild Animals You Can and Can’t Keep as Pets in the U.S.A

Top Wild Animals You Can and Can’t Keep as Pets in the U.S.A.

Many people dream of owning exotic animals as pets. From colorful reptiles to majestic wild cats, the idea of keeping a wild animal at home can be exciting. But in the United States, laws around exotic pet ownership are strict, and not every animal is allowed. In this guide, we’ll explore which wild animals you can legally keep, which ones are banned, and what U.S. laws say in 2025.

What qualifies as a wild animal.

Wild animals are species that haven’t been domesticated through generations. This includes lions, tigers, wolves, monkeys, foxes, bears, and exotic reptiles. Even if these animals are raised in captivity, they are still considered wild under most U.S. laws. Their behavior can be unpredictable, and they often require specialized care that is hard to provide in a home environment.

Federal laws on wild animal ownership.

Federal laws are the first layer of regulation. Two major acts control the ownership and transport of exotic animals in the U.S.:

The endangered species act (ESA).

This law protects animals that are listed as endangered or threatened. It’s illegal to own or trade animals on this list without special government permits.

The lacey act.

This law bans the illegal trade of wildlife, fish, and plants. It also restricts transporting certain animals across state lines, especially if they’re prohibited in either state.

These laws are enforced nationwide, regardless of state-level permissions.

State laws vary across the U.S.A.

Each state has its own set of rules for owning exotic pets. Some are extremely strict, while others allow more freedom with proper permits.

California, New York, and Hawaii These states have some of the toughest restrictions. Wild and exotic animals are largely banned, including large reptiles, primates, and big cats.

Texas and Nevada.

More lenient in terms of ownership. With the right permit, residents can own a wider range of exotic animals, including monkeys and big cats.

Florida. 

Allows ownership of certain reptiles and exotic birds with permits, but bans large carnivores and venomous animals without strict controls.

Always check with your state’s wildlife or agricultural department for up-to-date regulations.

What animals are generally allowed as exotic pets.

Some wild or exotic animals are legal to own in many U.S. states:

– hedgehogs  

– sugar gliders  

– ball pythons  

– african grey parrots (non-endangered)  

– fennec foxes  

– macaws  

– monitor lizards (non-venomous)  

– tarantulas  

These animals are often allowed because they pose less risk to public safety and can be cared for in captivity with the right environment.

Animals that are usually banned.

Most states ban the following species due to safety, ethical, and environmental concerns:

– lions and tigers  

– wolves and wolf hybrids  

– bears  

– chimpanzees and large primates  

– crocodiles and alligators  

– venomous snakes  

– big cats like leopards, jaguars  

These animals often require secure enclosures, professional care, and can pose serious danger to owners and the public.

Risks of owning a wild animal.

Even legal exotic pets come with risks. Wild animals may carry diseases such as rabies or salmonella. They can also become aggressive or escape. Many require a special diet, space, and vet care not easily available.

ethical concerns also arise when keeping wild animals in captivity. Many animals suffer from stress, anxiety, and health problems when removed from their natural habitats.

Permits and responsibilities.

If your state allows certain wild pets, you’ll likely need a license or permit. These may require background checks, proper housing proof, and sometimes liability insurance. Violating these rules can lead to fines or confiscation of the animal.

Conclusion.

Keeping a wild animal as a pet in the U.S. may sound appealing, but it’s heavily regulated for good reason. In 2025, laws remain strict to protect both humans and animals. If you're interested in exotic pets, choose legal options that are safe and manageable. Always research state laws and consider the welfare of the animal before making a decision.

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Discover the top wild animals you can and can’t keep as pets in the U.S. in 2025. Learn about federal and state laws, permitted exotic pets, banned species, and important legal tips for safe and responsible pet ownership.