We all know about the usual suspects when it comes to pets – dogs, cats, hamsters. But what about the lesser-known exotic animals that make great companions? From parrots to prairie dogs, there are dozens of unique and rare pets out there that can make for an interesting addition to any home. If you’re looking for something a little different, read on to learn more about some of the most interesting exotic pets around.
Cool Exotic Animals: What Is That Animal?
As pet-keeping continues to grow in popularity, exotic pet-keeping does as well. Many people are surprised to learn about the great diversity of species that we have on this planet, and this variety extends to the animals we keep in our homes. “Traditional” pets are great, but some people prefer something a little more unusual. Keeping exotic pets can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to do your research before you bring one home.
There are a number of factors to consider before you decide to keep an exotic pet.
- First, you need to make sure that the animal is legal to own in your state or country. There are regulations in place to protect both the animals and the people who keep them, so it’s important to be familiar with the laws before you make any decisions.
- Second, you need to consider whether or not you have the time and resources to care for an exotic pet. These animals often have specific dietary and housing needs, and it’s important to be able to provide for those needs before you bring an animal home.
- Finally, you need to think about whether or not you’re prepared to handle any challenges that may come up.
Exotic pets can be unpredictable, and it’s important to be prepared for anything that might happen.
If you’ve done your research and you’re ready to take on the challenges of exotic pet-keeping, then there are a number of amazing options available to you. From turtles and tortoises to snakes and lizards, there are a number of different animals that make great pets. If you’re looking for something a little more unusual, then you might consider keeping an amphibian or even an invertebrate. No matter what type of animal you choose, keeping an exotic pet can be a unique and rewarding experience.
Learn More: 8 Exotic Pets That Make Great Indoor Companions
15 Unique and Rare Exotic Pets
- African Pygmy Hedgehog
- Sugar Glider
- Bearded Dragon
- Leopard Gecko
- Blue-Tongued Skink
- Red-Footed Tortoise
- Chinchilla
- Fennec Fox
- Squirrel Monkey
- Capybara
- African Gray Parrot
- Amazon River Dolphin
- Binturong (Bearcat)
- Chinese Water Dragon
- Emperor Scorpion
- Gila Monster
1). African Pygmy Hedgehog
The African pygmy hedgehog is a small species of hedgehog that originates from Africa. These animals are popular pets due to their docile nature and cute appearance. Pygmy hedgehogs typically grow to be about 6-8 inches long and weigh between 1 and 2 pounds.
2). Sugar Glider
The sugar glider is a small marsupial that is native to Australia, Indonesia, and New Guinea. These animals get their name from their diet, which consists mostly of sugar cane and other sweet fruits. Sugar gliders are nocturnal creatures that live in trees and can glide long distances through the air.
Read More: 12 Exotic Pets That Are Legal in Arizona
3). Bearded Dragon
The bearded dragon is a type of lizard that is native to Australia. These lizards get their name from the spines that protrude from their neck and back, which resemble a beard. Bearded dragons are popular pets due to their docile nature and interesting appearance.
4). Leopard Gecko
The leopard gecko is a small species of lizard that is native to the deserts of Asia. These lizards are popular pets due to their docile nature and a wide variety of color morphs. Leopard geckos typically grow to be about 8-10 inches long and live for 10-20 years.
5). Blue-Tongued Skink
The blue-tongued skink is a type of lizard that is native to Australia and New Guinea. These lizards get their name from the blue tongue that they use to scare away predators. Blue-tongued skinks are popular pets due to their docile nature and unique appearance.
6). Red-Footed Tortoise
The red-footed tortoise is a medium-sized species of turtle that is native to South America. These turtles get their name from the red patches on their feet and legs. Red-footed tortoises are popular pets due to their docile nature and beautiful shell patterns.
7). Chinchilla
The chinchilla is a small rodent that is native to the Andes Mountains in South America. These animals are popular pets due to their soft fur and docile nature. Chinchillas typically grow to be about 12-16 inches long and live for 10-20 years.
8). Fennec Fox
The fennec fox is a small species of fox that is native to the Sahara Desert in Africa. These animals are popular pets due to their small size and cute appearance. Fennec foxes typically grow to be about 16 inches long and weigh between 2 and 4 pounds.
Read More: 9 Cuddly and Affectionate Exotic Pets
9). Squirrel Monkey
The squirrel monkey is a small primate that is native to the rainforests of South America. These monkeys are popular pets due to their small size and amusing antics. Squirrel monkeys typically grow to be about 12 inches long and live for 15-20 years.
10). Capybara
The capybara is the largest species of rodent in the world and is native to South America. These animals are popular pets due to their docile nature and amusing appearance. Capybaras typically grow to be about 4 feet long and weigh between 75 and 150 pounds.
11). African Gray Parrot
The African gray parrot is a medium-sized species of parrot that is native to Africa. These birds are popular pets due to their intelligence and ability to mimic human speech. African gray parrots typically grow to be about 12 inches long and live for 50-60 years.
12). Amazon River Dolphin
The Amazon river dolphin is a large species of dolphin that is native to the Amazon River in South America. These dolphins are popular pets due to their friendly nature and unique appearance. Amazon river dolphins typically grow to be about 8 feet long and weigh between 400 and 600 pounds.
Read More: 10 Exotic Pets You Can Own That Are Native to the United States
13). Red Panda
The red panda is a small mammal that is native to the Himalayan Mountains in Asia. These animals are popular pets due to their docile nature and cute appearance. Red pandas typically grow to be about 2 feet long and weigh between 10 and 20 pounds.
14). African Pygmy Goat
The African pygmy goat is a small breed of goat that is native to Africa. These animals are popular pets due to their docile nature and amusing antics. African pygmy goats typically grow to be about 16 inches tall at the shoulder and live for 10-12 years.
15). Gila Monster
The Gila monster is a large species of lizard that is native to the deserts of the southwestern United States and Mexico. These lizards are popular pets due to their docile nature and interesting appearance. Gila monsters typically grow to be about 2-3 feet long and live for 20-30 years.
This article is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge, but it should not be used as a substitute for diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, prescription, or formal and individualized advice from a veterinarian. If you have any concerns about your pet’s health or well-being, please make an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible.
