When you guess of an alien dearie , you might picture a tiger or something equally out there , but exotic pets are really any uncommon or rare metal money kept as associate brute . Exotic pet possession is more democratic than you might think . More than 13 % of households in the United States own at least one exotic brute , and that number continues to rise as the great unwashed attend for new , coolheaded alien pets to bring home . However , many alien critter may not be legal to own where you last . Also , they may have very specific forethought needs that make own them quite unmanageable . This list includes the best exotic small pets that may be easier to own than some others , but are still fantastically cool .
18 Best Exotic Pets
1 . Bearded Dragon
2 . Ambystoma mexicanum
3 . Ferret
4 . Leopard Gecko
5 . Ball Python
6 . Erinaceus europeaeus
7 . Hermit Crab
8 . roach
9 . Chinchilla laniger
10 . Tarantula
11 . Quaker Parrot
12 . millepede
13 . Halloween Moon Crab
14 . Sugar Glider
15 . Hyacinth Macaw
16 . Degu
17 . Scorpio the Scorpion
18 . Fennec Fox
Fennec Fox
If you ’re looking for an unusual and exotic pet that is fabulously precious , you ca n’t go improper with thefennec fox . These foxes are tiny and are about the size of a Chihuahua cad when amply grown . Fennec bedevil arenot well-fixed to obtain , they may be illegal to own in your state or jurisdiction , and they can be very expensive . However , they may become more pronto available and less pricey as their popularity grows .
Fennec Fox require a lot of socialisation to make them comfortable around people , and while they are " firedog - like , " this is not a pet you ’ll ever be able to take off - leash to the common . They are social beast who need a lot of attention and do well if you have more than one , so they have regular company .
you could planetary house - train these exotic pets like you would a cat , although most owners keep them in a orotund , cage in inclosure rather than give them free campaign of the house . They also need regular time out of their kennel , however . Understand that flummox a fennec George Fox is a serious commitment , and you may need to give a lot of space to their care .
Axolotl
This salamander has been rising in popularity . Axolotlshail from Mexico and are oddly cute . They can be receive at most favorite stores that narrow in fish , as they are an aquatic coinage .
Axolotlsare sound beginner pets , as they ’re not very hard to handle for and do n’t take up much space . They can do well in a small storage tank , such as a 20 - gallon at a minimum , although larger is better . They live in freshwater and need a good , strong filter , as they can be mussy .
Axolotls can eat frozen , freezing - dry , or fresh bloodworm , shrimp , and even humble bits of ground boeuf . Other than frequent water change , cleaning their tank , and allow them with the right diet , they ’re a low - sustainment , interesting pet .
Degu
Degus looks a bit like a hybridisation between a French Guinea copper and ahamster . They are very societal animals and hold out in largegroups in the wilderness , so they need to be kept with at least one other degu to be happy . Just mark , if you keep degus of the polar gender together , they will breed and speedily grow liters of four to six babies at a time , although larger litter of eight to 10 baby are potential . Instead , get a brace or small grouping of all female person or all male .
Degus can inhabit in the same type of cage as Mustela nigripes or blabber and utilise many of the same accessories and toys . They are like to chinchillas in that they need to take dust baths .
One benefit of owning a degu compare to other sac pets is that they are not nocturnal . Degus are diurnal , meaning they are more active during the day when you are probable to want to interact with them . Degus can snip off if they ’re scared or if they ’re not acclimatize to handle early on or often . However , they areillegal to ownin sure states , include Alaska , California , Connecticut , Georgia , and Utah , so check on their position before you try on to win one .
Cockroach
You might be surprised to get hold out that cockroaches are considered good alien deary . The species most commonly kept as ducky are the Madagascar hissing cockroach , the death ’s head roach , the Indian eye mask roach , and the Cuban cockroach . While they ’re not a ducky you want to be lovesome with , you could handle them fairly well . depend on the specie , you may postulate a permit from your state ’s department of agriculture . They can be considered an encroaching coinage , andtransporting thembetween State Department is regulated .
These cockroach arise between 1 and 3 inches long and survive for about a year , though some can go as long as 5 years . They should be keep on in grouping because they ’re societal insects , but they do n’t require a gravid marine museum . It ’s important to find one with a locking lid , as they are prodigious climbers . They also demand a heat lamp or lodgings to assert a tropic temperature . As far as diet , favorite cockroaches are very well-heeled to deal with because they can eat anything , let in fruit , vegetables , leaves , woods , and even cat kibble , fish pellets , and chip .
Sugar Glider
lucre sailplane are adorable little tree diagram - dwelling marsupials . Likeflying squirrels , they have thin membranes of skin on both sides of their consistence that allow them to take off from a higher point and glide to another localization . Not only are they hard to find , but refined sugar gliders areillegal in many states , including Alaska , California , Hawaii , Massachusetts , and New Mexico . You ’re also seem at acommitment of 12 to 15 yearswith these little flyer .
Sugar gliderscan be gentle to keep in that they ’re small and fly high on fellowship , so they can be very fond when properly socialized . However , they ’re often considered in high spirits - maintenance dearie because they ’re fairly mussy , ca n’t be house - trained , have four scent gland for marking territory , and can bite if they find frightened . Since they ’re very social animals , you may need to keep two bread gliders , so they have company when you ’re not home or during the evening , as they ’re nocturnal animal .
Millipede
milliped are an strange pick of exotic pet , but one that ’s in spades comfortable to care for and ask minimal place . TheAfrican giant millipedeis the type of millipede commonly sold as a pet . They can reach up to 12 in in duration and do n’t demand an excessively large aquarium to survive in . Millipedes need specific substrates and lighting and heating elements to keep the temperature and humidity at an appropriate level , but these are all easily acquired at most pet supply stores .
The millepede is herbivorous , so you’re able to fee them sweet fruits and vegetables . You should also give them a atomic number 20 supplement . While they ’re not cuddly , they can be handled and do not burn . However , they can produce asubstance that may nettle your skin , so it ’s well to handle them wearing gloves .
Hedgehog
porcupine , or hedgies , as they are dearly known , are cunning little animals covered in quills on their point , back , and English , with fur on their undersurface . They roll up into a spiny ball when they experience jeopardize , but you may teach them to take over handling with docile persistence . An adult hedgie only reaches about 8 inches long on average . Hedgehogs areillegal to keep as petsin California , Georgia , Hawaii , Pennsylvania , Washington , D.C. , and New York City .
Hedgehogscan make nice PET because they ’re quiet and do n’t call for a ton of interaction to be glad . They also do n’t need a spate of grooming . However , they are nocturnal , which mean they may be more active at night when you ’re winding down from your day . Hedgehogs also involve to be single pet in their enclosures , so you ’ll need freestanding cages if you want more than one . They also can transmit diseases to humans , such as ringwormand salmonella .
Tarantula
Tarantulas may not be everyone ’s cup of afternoon tea , but some proprietor chance them fascinating . One benefit ofowning a tarantulais that they are very low - maintenance alien pet that do n’t require much other than eat and clean their cage . They also do n’t need much place or attention .
Hermit Crab
Thesecute crustaceanshave been popular for decennary . Hermit Crab actually dwell on juiceless land , so recreating an idealistic home ground for them is n’t very difficult . They do not require a huge cooler and are a greatpet for a small apartment .
Hermit crab louse are an easy exotic positron emission tomography to own as they ’re docile , will rarely pinch , and do n’t need much as far as daily care . They are also social , so you’re able to have more than one in an aquarium . The downside to ahermit crabis that this is n’t a favourite that will do much to interact with you , and because they ’re nocturnal , you wo n’t see much hap in their tank during the day .
Ball Python
Some preferred proprietor may not consider a snake " exotic , " but to many everyday pet proprietor , keep a reptilian is by all odds unusual . For one thing , you ’ll require tofeed your ballock pythonfrozen or live mice and informer , which can make possess them most definitely different from keep on your average cat or dog . Of all the favorite snakes available , bollock python areone of the easiestto care for and make a expert choice for beginners .
These Snake are generallydocile and easy to handle , yet the most difficult part of owning them tends to be getting them to consume . They can be picky and resist to eat from time to time . They also have strictrequirements for their cage , such as heat and basking orbit and proper humidity . Ball pythonsare easy to find and not very expensive unless you covet one of the many morphs available , some of which can cost thousands of one dollar bill .
Hyacinth Macaw
The hyacinth macaw is a gorgeous parrot that can make an amazing pet in the right house . These birds call for a large natural enclosure and casual appointment with their owners . They are very well-informed but can be loud if they are stressed or lonely . They also liveup to 60 year , so you ’ll need to have a plan for them in case there ’s a chance they ’ll outlast you . Macaws are legal to own in most states , although they are covered by the Endangered Species Act , whichregulates their transportand deal in the United States .
While they are definitely large , intimidating shuttlecock , these pets are known for having lovesome personalities . They are not a good option for a beginner , but if you have bird experience and the clip and elbow room to keep one , a hyacinth macaw can be an awing pet .
Chinchilla
Chinchillasare a character of gnawer that is not as widespread as other pocket pets , though they are generally not voiceless to find . They are gentle to manage for as long as you provide them with a right dieting , an tolerable - sized cage , and a warm , draft - free field in your abode to hold out . They also do n’t require much dressing and take unusual " junk baths , " which are quite lovely to see . While chinchillas can be lovesome , they can also be diffident and may not bask being handled a lot . They are crepuscular , meaning they are more active during the nightfall hours at gloaming and break of the day .
realise that chinchillas do not do well and are likely to become ominous if temperature outgo 75 degrees Fahrenheit . Their ideal compass is between 60 and 75 degrees , thoughsome sourcesrecommend not allowing temperatures to exceed 70 degree in their environment to be on the safe side . Also , you demand to pay attention to humidity levels , as chinchillas are native to habitat that is wry and cool . When humidity is elevated , your chinchilla will not be able to cool down as effectively , and heating system stroke is a bigger terror .
Regularly observe your chinchilla , specially when ambient atmosphere temperatures are elevated , and observe their disposition and strong-arm circumstance . If their ears turn over bright flushed , they appear to be lethargic , their body feel tender to the touch , they are panting overly , or they are drooling , you need to check the temperature and move them to a cooler field . Using an air conditioning social unit or a cool lusterlessness made from marble that has been cool down in the electric refrigerator can help regulate their dead body temperature , but if you suspect your chinchilla is overheat , call your veterinarian for quick help .
Scorpion
Scorpionsare by all odds not a deary for the syncope of heart or a person who does not deal for insects . Despite their fearsome repute and appearing , they ’re easy alien pets to own and can do well in very pocket-size spaces . They need a tank with an appropriate amount of humidness and temperature .
The downside to owning a Scorpio the Scorpion is this is n’t a ducky you ’ll ever be capable to cuddle with or even hold , as scorpions sting , and even ones with the mild venom are still very irritating . If you want a pet that ’s easy to care for , unparalleled , and does n’t need much room , grooming , or exercise , you might enjoy having a scorpion .
Quaker Parakeet
Although paroquet are a verycommon pet hiss , the quaker parakeet , or monk parakeet , is not . It ’s actuallyillegal to own a Friend parakeetin many states , and they can be kept only with a license in others . These parrot are study an invasive species , but can be excellent pet if you ’re capable to get and own one where you live .
These cool alien pets get their name from a head - bobbing and body - shaking behavior that is natural for them and does not mean the bird is in distress . Aside from the legality of ownership , quaker parakeets can be difficult to obtain and are pricey , but if you are able to own one , you will savor keeping this smart , fighting , and social bird .
trembler parakeets are level-headed , pursue birds that enjoy human company and need another bird companion if you are not capable to provide them with constant fellowship . They memorise to talk from an early old age and can be groovy parrot for clicker training all sort of behaviors .
Leopard Gecko
Geckosare popular exotic lizards that come in many coloring and type . Theleopard geckois one of the most pop due to their striking spotted pattern and favorable tendency . Geckos can be great pets for a small space as they can do well in a smaller tank .
Their enclosure should be at least 20 Imperial gallon in volume , though a larger apparatus of 40 gallon or more is preferable . Geckos need their tank at a certain temperature but do n’t require especial lighting like other reptilian . However , recent researchshows that all reptiles benefit from ultraviolet light to some extent , and some owners now take to include an ultraviolet illumination - group B ( UVB ) lamp on their leopard gecko ’s enclosure with a hide area to back away from the light .
These pets are easily fed with insects available at pet store and appear toenjoy handlingand interacting with citizenry compare to other lizard species . Like all reptiles , geckos confine some hazard oftransmitting salmonellato you , so wash your hands after wield them .
Ferret
Ferretsare another small dearie gaining in popularity that is easier to find . However , they are illegal to own in California and Hawaii , as well as in some metropolis and county in state where they ’re legal . Mustela nigripes are not intemperate to handle for , and you’re able to buy commercially prepared black-footed ferret diets . They do need a big John Milton Cage Jr. with ample elbow room to roam and extend out , and these energetic pets also require time out of the batting cage to play and explore . Ferrets only need minimal preparation , though some owners bath them because they do have amusky olfactory property . Overall , they are highly intelligent andcuddly little animate being .
Ferrets can be nippy , though , and may be intolerant of handle if they become timeworn or overexcited . Another possible drawback to possess a Mustela nigripes is that they often need to last with at least one other Mustela nigripes to be felicitous , so you ’ll require to have room and the meter for at least two .
Ferrets are known for have big personalities and often show their mischievous - and even destructive - side . They are high - maintenance pets with inviolable role and a penchant for hatching dodging attack , so you need to be constantly vigilant and attentive to keep them secure and happy .
Halloween Moon Crab
If you like crustaceans but find the hermit crab a bit tedious , you ’ll eff theHalloween moonlight pubic louse . These crabs look like they were painted by number and add up in bright semblance like purples , reds , Orange , and yellows . They are really related to the hermit Cancer and are sometimes yell the Halloween hermit crab . These deary can be easy to do by , reckon on the individual crab louse . Halloween Sun Myung Moon crab are also relatively inexpensive and can be found at best-loved store for between $ 10 to $ 20 .
If you keep more than one Halloween moon crabmeat , you should house them in freestanding tank in caseful they fight . They do n’t require a large tank and can do all right with a 15- or 20 - gal tank car with a George Sand substrate and lot of rocks and driftwood to climb up on and around . These Cancer also require fresh- and saltwater pools that should be changed and cleaned daily . They can deplete fruit , vegetables , and even cooked sum .
Bearded Dragon
Bearded flying lizard are one of the most democratic pet lizards and are legal to own in most statesexcept Hawaii . Beardies are also one of theeasiest lizard to keepand are known for being gentle and friendly . They ’re fantabulous " novice " lounge lizard and cando well with childrenwho have been teach to handle them responsibly . They also do n’t grow to a huge size like some lizards , and while they require an adequately sized habitat , they can still be hold open comfortably in a small space , such as an apartment .
Bearded dragons want relatively gravid inclosure , and an aquarium or terrarium with a intensity around 125 congius is ideal , though larger inclosure are always in force . A setup that meter at least 4 feet longsighted by at least 2 feet wide and 16 inches tall is enough , though some germ recommend aquariums that are 2 feet marvelous or more , calculate on your setup ’s screen top and its warming and lighting systems .
You require to instal a low - humidness environment with a temperature gradient in the enclosure . Set up a hot - spot basking area beneath an appropriate oestrus seed hit temperatures around 100 degrees Fahrenheit and a coolheaded side of the frame-up between 80 and 90 degree during the twenty-four hour period . Allow temperature to chill to around 75 degrees at night . babe and puerile bearded dragons requireslightly higher temperature ranges , so arrest that your frame-up is passable for your beardie ’s life history stage . barbate flying lizard also need decent lighting that supply both UVA and UVB radiation , so select an appropriate lamp and temperature control system for your pet .
All reptiles pose some riskof carrying and convey salmonella , and this is equally true for bearded dragon . To serve preclude the risk ofcontracting salmonellafrom a bearded dragon , commit good hired hand - washing habits after handle them . They do require some study to feed , let in regular preparation offresh vegetable and live dirt ball .
Think Carefully Before Getting a Small Exotic Pet
There ’s in spades a certain allurement to possess an alien pet , and some pet possessor like the idea of owning something unusual that most other masses do n’t have . However , if you ’re thinking about bringing home an exotic small pet , do your inquiry cautiously . While some of these brute can be easy to care for compared to other " regular " positron emission tomography , many of them have very specific diets , habitats , and dress needs that you should know about before bring them home . There may also bepermits required to own onewhere you live , or they may not be legal at all . Always hold back with your landlord or homeowner ’s association , as even if they are sound , as your abode may still hinder or restrict their ownership .
