11 Exotic Pets You Can Legally Keep—But With Big Responsibilities

Exotic pets are fascinating, but they come with serious legal duties and care commitments. Be prepared.

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Sugar Gliders

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African Pygmy Hedgehog

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Leopard Geckos

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Macaws & Parrots

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Hermit Crabs

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Iguanas

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Only adopt exotic pets if you're aware of care needs, lifespan, and laws around their ownership.

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11 Exotic Pets You Can Legally Keep—But With Big Responsibilities

Exotic pets are fascinating, but they come with serious legal duties and care commitments. Be prepared.

Sugar Gliders

Small, social, and cute, sugar gliders need special diets and lots of attention to thrive happily.

African Pygmy Hedgehog

These quiet creatures love the dark and cold, but require cleanliness and strict temperature control daily.

Leopard Geckos

Leopard geckos are calm, low-maintenance lizards that thrive in controlled terrariums and are beginner-reptile friendly.

Macaws & Parrots

Bright, intelligent birds like macaws need huge cages, enrichment, and long-term emotional bonding to stay healthy.

Hermit Crabs

Hermit crabs are social and sensitive; they need humidity, climbing structures, and proper shells to grow.

Iguanas

Iguanas demand space, heat lamps, and UV light setups—best for experienced pet parents, not beginners.

Only adopt exotic pets if you're aware of care needs, lifespan, and laws around their ownership.