There are few things better than coming home after a long day of work or school and being greeted by your favorite pet. We all need companions, and pets help fill that void in our lives. 

While many people opt for dogs and cats, others fall in love with rarer animals and keep them in their homes. The only trouble is finding exotic animals that are legal to own. 

Well, worry no more! In this article, we’ll be sharing our own exotic pets list to help you find the best legal rare pet for your home. 

8 Most Accessible Exotic Pets List

Exotic pets used to refer to any household pet that was a little unconventional. Nowadays, it’s the legal term for animals introduced from a foreign country or is foreign in nature. 

Ruffle Snuffle’s Life with Pets is a great resource for choosing pets of all shapes and sizes. Let’s take a look at their picks for the best exotic pets:

8. Turtles

Turtles are relatively common pets but are still considered exotic because of many of their origins. People love turtles for their look, calmness, and longevity. 

The most popular type of turtle is the Red-eared Slider. 

7. Tarantulas

When people think of creepy-crawlies, they almost always turn to tarantulas. If you like arachnids and want to have one as a buddy, tarantulas are excellent choices. 

8. Hedgehogs

Hedgehogs, on the other hand, are adorable little mammals that fit into most home habitats. These nocturnal creatures need a little time to nurture but are low-maintenance and quiet.

Keep in mind that California, Georgia, Hawaii, Pennsylvania, New York City, and Washington D.C. residents can’t own hedgehogs

6. Guinea Pigs

Though not the most outlandish animal on our list, guinea pigs are exotic in origin and make great pets. They’re easy to handle and take to a veterinarian and won’t disturb any neighbors. They also love to move around and socialize!

5. Hermit Crabs

These crustaceans are popular among homeowners. They’re dry-land creatures so you can easily recreate their habitat. Hermit crabs rarely pinch and are nocturnal creatures. 

4. Hyacinth Macaws

Hyacinth macaws are marvelous parrots who are very intelligent and live for a long time. They’ll need large spaces to roam and can be loud, and they’re perfectly legal to own in the U.S. 

3. Chinchillas

Chinchillas aren’t too hard to find but are still popular exotic pets in the U.S. These nocturnal animals make great pets as long as you give them proper cages and a warm home. 

2. Ball Pythons

Having a ball python as a pet is definitely a different experience from a dog or a cat. They eat frozen mice and rats while requiring specific humidity and temperatures. Otherwise, they’re docile and make for relatively easy pets. 

1. Bearded Dragons

Bearded dragons certainly look exotic, but are just as easy to handle and maintain. They’re considered a “beginner” lizard for their docile behavior. Keep them happy by feeding them live insects and fresh vegetables. 

Invest in an Exotic Pet Today

Not every lifelong pet will be a dog or a cat. Use this exotic pets list to find the right companion today!

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