Association of Zoos and Aquariums Statement on Wild Animals as Pets
Wild Animals Do Not Make Good Pets
Exotic animals like pythons, kinkajous and scarlet macaws have captured the hearts of animal-lovers looking for companions with pizzazz. Of course, nothing says "wow!" like a tiger; but keeping exotic animals as pets can come with a hidden cost.
What is a "wild" animal?
Wild animals have lived for thousands and thousands of years without the direct influence of humans. They have adaptations that help them survive in their own complex environments. They are not well adapted to living in your house!
What's wrong with having a wild animal as a pet?
You can't provide the right home for them.
Wild animals have complex behavioral, social, nutritional and psychological needs. Most people simply cannot meet the needs of wild animals kept as "pets". Wild animals need to be with members of their own species, not humans.
Taking them from the wild can endanger the species.
Parrots are the world's most endangered family of birds due to devastation from the international pet trade. The enormous global demand for exotic pets is fueling the illegal capture and trade of millions of birds, mammals and reptiles annually, most of which die while being captured or transported.
You could get hurt.
Keeping wild animals as pets can be dangerous. They can bite, scratch, attack their owners, and their owner's children and guests. Animal owners are legally responsible for any damage, injuries or illnesses caused by their animals. Finding new homes for large, hard-to-handle animals can be difficult, if not impossible, particularly since most zoos are unable to accept them.
You could get sick.
Wild animals carry diseases dangerous to humans. Some diseases are not curable and can be fatal. Diseases include rabies, distemper, herpes viruses, salmonella, polio, tuberculosis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever and bubonic plague. Wild animals also harbor parasites, such as ascarid worms, tape worms, flukes, and protozoa.
It would probably be illegal.
Many state, county and city ordinances prohibit the ownership of wild animals as pets.