Looking to add a little more excitement to your life? Why not consider an exotic pet? While many states have laws regulating the keeping of exotic animals, Arizona is one of 10 states where there are no restrictions on owning certain exotics. Here are 12 creatures that you could add to your family today in the Grand Canyon State.
Concede an Exotic Pet in Arizona
Arizona is a state with a wide range of climate conditions, from the Sonoran Desert to the cooler temperatures found at higher altitudes. This means that when it comes to keeping exotic animals as pets, there are both advantages and disadvantages to living in Arizona.
On the plus side, the state has a fairly restrictive no-go list for exotic animal ownership, which means that your choices are limited to species that are better suited to the local climate.
However, if you hate extreme heat or want a much wider choice of exotic pets to keep, Arizona might not be the state for you. In general, it is important to research the specific needs of any exotic animal before making the decision to bring it into your home. With a little bit of planning, however, it is possible to find an exotic pet that will thrive in even the most challenging climates.
Similar: 8 Exotic Pets That Make Great Indoor Companions
Restriction for Exotic Animal Laws
There are a few states with very restrictive laws when it comes to owning exotic animals, and Arizona is not one of them. In fact, the state has relatively lax laws when it comes to owning exotics, which means that you have a few more options when it comes to choosing a pet.
However, this does not mean that you can choose any animal you want. There are still some restrictions in place, and it is important to research the laws before bringing an exotic pet into your home. For example, Arizona does not allow private individuals to own tigers, lions, or other large cats.
The state also has a few restrictions when it comes to primates, reptiles, and amphibians. For example, you cannot own a monkey or ape in Arizona, and there are some restrictions on the types of reptiles and amphibians that you can keep as pets.
12 Exotic Animals to Own in Arizona
- African pygmy hedgehogs
- Bearded dragons
- Chinchillas
- Fennec foxes
- Geckos
- Hedgehogs
- Iguanas
- Leopard geckos
- Snakes
- Sugar gliders
- Tarantulas
- Tortoises
1). African pygmy hedgehogs
These small spiky mammals are native to Africa and make great pets for those who are looking for something a little different. African pygmy hedgehogs are nocturnal, so they are most active at night. They are also relatively low-maintenance, as they only need to be fed once a day and can live in a small cage.
Read More: 10 Exotic Pets That Are Legal in Indiana
2). Bearded dragons
Bearded dragons are a type of lizard that is native to Australia. They are one of the most popular reptiles to keep as pets and can live for up to 20 years. Bearded dragons are omnivores, so they eat both plants and animals. They also need a warm climate to thrive, so Arizona is a perfect place for them.
3). Chinchillas
Chinchillas are small rodents that are native to South America. They are popular pets because of their soft fur, which is often used in making clothes and other products. Chinchillas require a cool environment and need to be groomed regularly. They also have a lifespan of up to 20 years.
4). Fennec foxes
Fennec foxes are small foxes that are native to the Sahara Desert. They are the smallest species of fox in the world and are known for their large ears. Fennec foxes make great pets because they are playful and affectionate. They also have a lifespan of up to 10 years.
Get more information: Can You Own a Raccoon Dog as a Pet
5). Geckos
Geckos are a type of lizard that is native to tropical and subtropical climates. There are over 1,000 different species of gecko, so there is a lot of variety to choose from. Geckos make good pets because they are low-maintenance and can be easy to care for.
6). Hedgehogs
Hedgehogs are small mammals that are native to Europe and Asia. They are known for their spiky fur, which is used for self-defense. Hedgehogs make good pets because they are relatively low-maintenance and can be easy to care for. However, they do require a warm climate to thrive.
7). Iguanas
Iguanas are a type of lizard that is native to Central and South America. They are one of the most popular reptiles to keep as pets and can live for up to 20 years. Iguanas are herbivores, so they only eat plants. They also need a warm climate to thrive, so Arizona is a perfect place for them.
8). Leopard geckos
Leopard geckos are a type of lizard that is native to Pakistan and Afghanistan. They are one of the most popular reptiles to keep as pets and can live for up to 20 years. Leopard geckos are omnivores, so they eat both plants and animals. They also need a warm climate to thrive, so Arizona is a perfect place for them.
Read More: 5 Weird but Normal Axolotl Behaviors
9). Snakes
Snakes are reptiles that are native to every continent except Antarctica. They are one of the most popular pets in the world and come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. Snakes need a warm climate to thrive, so Arizona is a perfect place for them.
10). Sugar gliders
Sugar gliders are small marsupials that are native to Australia and Indonesia. They are popular pets because they are very affectionate and can bond closely with their owners. Sugar gliders require a warm climate to thrive, so Arizona is a perfect place for them.
11). Tarantulas
Tarantulas are large spiders that are native to warm climates all over the world. They are popular pets because they are relatively low-maintenance and can be easy to care for. However, tarantulas can be dangerous if they are not handled properly.
Read More: 10 Reasons Owls Make Great Pets
12). Tortoises
Tortoises are reptiles that are native to every continent except Antarctica. They are one of the most popular pets in the world and can live for up to 100 years. Tortoises are herbivores, so they only eat plants. They also need a warm climate to thrive, so Arizona is a perfect place for them.
