Exotic animals are highly regulated (and rightfully so), but read on to learn about a few species that can technically be housed by Minnesotans.
Thinking about starting your own backyard zoo? Well, aside from the ethical implications of adopting would-be wild animals, the neighbors probably might not be too thrilled with your endeavor.
But regardless of whether you should purchase or adopt undomesticated animals, it’s fascinating to learn that you can—legally—own some of these creatures. Just in case you want to daydream about what a personal zoo could consist of, check out our list of seven exotic animals that are (sometimes surprisingly) legal to own in Minnesota.
1. Wallabies
Most of us have heard of wallabies, but might not be able to identify them in a photograph. The good news? They’re extremely adorable and hard to forget once you clarify what they are. Hailing from the same family as kangaroos, wallabies are smaller than their famous counterparts but boast their own pouches for carrying young. There’s a wide array of wallaby sizes, with some weighing as little as five pounds and others reaching up to 50. If you had the capacity to take in one of these cute herbivores, it would be completely legal in Minnesota.
2. Pythons
If you’ve got ophidiophobia, stop reading now and skip ahead—because we’re about to talk snakes. In Minnesota, it’s legal to own constrictor snakes like ball pythons, which can live for up to 30 years if properly cared for. They might not be as famous as their boa constrictor cousins, but ball pythons are still fierce creatures who easily take hold of prey like mice and rats.
3. Sugar gliders
Here’s another cute and relatively underappreciated animal for our list: the spectacular sugar glider. With their big eyes and seemingly webbed extremities, sugar gliders are named for their ability to leap and flit between branches or other landing spots. They’re mostly nocturnal, but they’re also known for being social, so it’s no wonder they’re a popular choice for animal lovers who want to dip their toe into exotics without getting too exotic. However, residents of St. Paul will have to make do with photos of this cute creature, as sugar gliders have been banned in the city since 2007.
4. Tortoises
It’s not outright illegal to own tortoises in Minnesota, much to the delight of turtle enthusiasts throughout the state. With proper precautions and research, you can build a tortoise wonderland in your backyard, complete with an unlimited supply of lettuce, tons of rocks and sand for relaxation, and a 24/7 inspirational playlist to boost your tortoise’s self-esteem. This is definitely a hypothetical scenario and not something we’re referencing from personal experience.
5. Fennec foxes
It’s illegal to own most types of fox in Minnesota, but there are very narrow legal exceptions for a specific non-native species called the fennec fox. That said, you’d need to do some extra legwork to prove your fennec fox had been legally obtained and properly examined by a veterinarian. And, again, specific city ordinances would still apply.
6. Pigeons
Depending on which part of the state you live in, there’s technically nothing preventing you from keeping a pigeon as a pet. As with most of the creatures on our list, specific guidelines vary by city, and you’d likely need proper licensure and local zoning permits to care for a pigeon at home. But if you’ve always wanted your own personal carrier pigeon, Minnesota might be the perfect state for you.
7. Stingrays
You probably won’t be able to add a stingray to your at-home aquarium, but you might be able to legally obtain one in Minnesota if you’re working in an accredited educational or research capacity—and if you can get the proper licensing from the state. Stingrays require an incredible amount of water for day-to-day life (think tanks with hundreds or even thousands of gallons), but there are some to be found in Minnesota if you’re determined to see one up close!
