I would first like to make it known that this thread is not for the discussion of knowingly obtaining, possessing, selling, propagating, or trying to do any of these with animals that are considered illegal in your home state. This is merely a discussion on what is and what isn't legal where you live and why.

Personally, I like a variety of different animals, and it seems everywhere I look, at least one animal on my "List" is illegal in some state or another. Here are a few examples.

In the state of Virginia, it is illegal to have a serval (african wild cat) for personal reasons. You have to be an exhibitor and obtain all the necessary permits. Now, I wouldn't mind getting permits for personal possession since I would like to keep a serval in my home (there are states that allow this if you get the permits and are inspected), but going so far as to get a exhibitor's license is a bit much for someone like me who doesn't wish to run a zoo or educational program. But, this beautiful cat remains on my "List".

In the state of California, where my husband was born and where we have considered moving to in the future, has the domestic ferret listed as a banned species. The reason is because they do not want ferrets getting loose and forming a wild population and threaten their wildlife. While some ferrets have a wonderful hunting instinct, it is highly unlikely they would get out and form a wild population as the majority of ferrets in the pet trade are spayed/neutered. Dogs and cats pose more of a threat than ferrets in this case.

In New York City, ball pythons are illegal. While they are a small python that would most definitely perish in the cold New York winters, they remain a banned pet within city limits.

So, are there any animals you'd like to own but currently cannot due to your states laws on exotic animals?

Another question....is there any way to make changes in our own state to make these animals legal to possess for personal reasons?