The California redwoods and giant sequoia here are among the oldest living things on Earth. They are most abundant in the east where the highest interspersion of mature woodlands, water courses, and agriculture occurs. Have you ever wanted to pal around with a pet raccoon? In West Virginia, there are no restrictions on private exotic pet ownership. Jamestown was established as early as 1607. Nutria and muskrat can be trapped during open season with a permit. Can you feed it a healthy diet with the correct nutrition? The raccoon does not make a bad pet, however, the raccoon can be hard work. A furharvester license is required to run furbearers. Once, Tito even tried his paw at ASMR. Plus, these North American natives are nocturnal, meaning they're most active at night. Although that may sound like run-of-the-mill pet adoption advice, its also true that raccoons are not your average house pets. They have an expansive diet, and they are not picky eaters. Some raccoons have been known to bond with their human owners, especially when adopted at a very young age. 15 of the Weirdest Pets That You Can Actually Own in the UK. If you have the space, it's ideal to provide a secure outdoor enclosure for your raccoon. The raccoon is by far the most important furbearer in Kansas in terms of total pelt value and number harvested. The Spruce Pets uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Some red flags include a raccoon that is underweight with its ribs showing, as well as a very lethargic animal or one that is not interested in food. This is only one example of the many diseases they have. Although this is a topic which is highly controversial and frowned upon, there are still many states that have not put law into action. There are a few things that you should consider before adopting a pet raccoon. Having been raised to live a domesticated life, throwing itself back into the wild will not be good for it. Additionally, food for your pet raccoon will be costlier than the food needed for domestic animals like dogs or cats. They can only pass on rabies during the last week of life, when actual symptoms are present. They can ruin equipment, spoil food and start fires by chewing on wires. In order to legally possess, transport, raise, or release raccoons in Texas, you have to be a permitted wildlife rehabber, and furthermore, if you intend to keep the animal in your possession, you need permission from the state with a vet that confirming that the raccoon is non-releasable. It costs $48 to obtain this license and $48 for each yearly renewal. Some states also limit the number of raccoons and deem ownership of these animals as partially legal. We would also suggest calling your home insurer, to see if they will cover damage from a pet raccoon. In Arkansas, a person cannot own more than five at a time. C ODE ch. Consult your vet for the best bathing frequency to avoid irritating their skin. Raccoons tend to go through a heavy shedding period at least once a year, as well as in times of stress. Despite being nocturnal animals, pet raccoons will come out to play with their owners during the daytime. Wyoming is the least populated state, but 10th largest by area. Fishing, hunting and trapping have long be associated with the states wide range of outdoor activities. Typically, three or four young are born in April or May. For long term, however, you will need to make sure that you have enough room to create a large and spacious living space for your new pet. California is the home of the largest trees, the tallest trees, and the oldest trees. 503, 110 are prohibited from private ownership except if the animal was in possession prior to February 28, 1994. What happens if it scratches or bites someone? It is highly recommended that you have a large outdoor enclosure for your raccoon to play unsupervised. That way, if it turns out that the mother is just out hunting, she can easily spring her baby from the ad hoc pen when she returns. You can legally own a raccoon as a pet in sixteen states. . The city of Boston is the capital, and 80% of the state's population resides in the Greater Boston area. Beaver, muskrat, nutria, opossum, squirrel, striped skunk, and non-game wildlife excluding migratory birds that are causing damage to personal property may be taken during daylight hours or trapped the entire year. These areas provide refuge for wildlife such as the endangered Mexican gray wolf. Remember, its important to check both state and local laws before purchasing an exotic pet. All imported exotic pets must be quarantined for a minimum of 30 days. Their state animal is the coyote. But remember to do your research and give it a lot of thought before taking those first steps. This is more per square mile than any other state. Texas is the second largest state in the US and the largest of the continental 48. Why Arent Raccoons Allowed As Pets Everywhere? Their state wild animal is the raccoon and their state bird is the mockingbird. A DMIN. There are no permits or licenses that make owning pet raccoons in Australia legal. There have been seminars that present information about caring for pet raccoons. Characteristics, Housing, Diet, and Other Information. Plus, they have established latrine areas, which means they are already litterbox trained. A dish of clean water should be available at all times. All organizations that accept animals must hold a Permit to Hold Game in Captivity, allowing them to rehabilitate the animal and return them safely to the wild. This is all down to the health and safety of the citizens, and it is safer for all to keep the two separate. If youre looking for an easy solution, pet raccoons eat grain-free dog food, but they can also subsist on a diet of poultry, fish, eggs, fruits and vegetables and even mice. In most states, raccoons are considered wild animals. Pennsylvania regulates the ownership of raccoons. Field Trail Permit - Furbearers and Coyotes. With over 80% of its land covered by forest, Maine is the most forest covered state. Large carnivores (lions, tigers, and bears) are prohibited from owning. Kentucky is abounding with resources and diverse environments. Injurious species under the U.S. As far as feeding goes, raccoons are omnivores, which means they eat both meat and plants. Arizona is home to the Grand Canyon, one of the 7 natural wonders of the world. Adult Size: 16 to 28 inches long, and 7 to 20 pounds on average. To the north lie the Blue Ridge Mountains which are part of the Appalachian Mountain range. It wouldnt know how to protect itself, scavenge, get used to the changed environment and climate. Wisconsin's state history is very familiar with trapping. And is owning something as exotic as a raccoon legal? You'll need to find out if your state allows them before bringing one into your home. Ohio is the 34th largest state by area. Raccoons require an abundant diet of natural resources. Delaware's highest point is only 450 feet above sea level. Zoos are the number one establishment for wild animals however this isnt only for the big and known zoos, this also counts for the underground privately owned ones which require no training with wild animals. There are 50 state parks, six national parks or protected regions, and two national protected forests or grasslands. Florida laws actively forbid the killing of wild animals like raccoons. So anything that might injure them or become damaged must be removed from their area. Although not too common, having a raccoon as a pet is possible and has been done by many. The list includes: But just because you can adopt a pet raccoon, does that mean you should? Taxes and shipping calculated at checkout. For example, acquiring a raccoon pet is much more difficult than adopting a cat or dog. The Mississippi river forms the eastern boundary while the Missouri and Big Sioux rivers make up the western boundary. Tree squirrels, badger, beaver, raccoon, fisher, mink, muskrat, and weasel may only be trapped during their open seasons with appropriate license. Weasels, gray squirrel, black squirrel, fox squirrel, raccoon, cotton-tail rabbit, opossum, muskrat, and hare may be taken by a resident at any time if causing damage to their property but require a permit if on being a nuisance. Keeping a raccoon as a pet, can in many instances be considered ethically wrong because you removed the raccoon from its normal environment. You must have an exotic pet license to own an exotic pet in Oklahoma. Question: Can you own a raccoon in California? This, in turn, leads to some controversy. %5t"y' &xeK7Mg`HTvO..3>. This unique type of watershed does not drain to the ocean as most waterways do. For instance, some states don't allow the importation of raccoons from other states. Much of Louisiana's land mass is comprised of enormous deltas and areas of coastal marsh and swamp. If the rodents don't get you, the other pest animals just might. Bats - except when taken as a result of an exclusion device. We also get your email address to automatically create an account for you in our website. For example, South Carolina prohibits owning lions as pets, but you can still own a monkey. Just know that no matter how fun and trendy Instagram makes raccoon ownership look, you're in it for the long haul. Find cities with a similar climate (2050) It has nearly 34,000 miles of coastline and its climate and isolation make it a haven for many of its 112 mammal species. In addition the permit will include the number of animals owned and the reason for owning the animals. Should You Keep Fennec Fox (Desert Fox) as a Pet? The Adirondack Park is the largest state park in the US. Can You Own a Pet Raccoon? Raccoons, skunks, opossums, beavers, muskrat, mink, long-tailed weasels, gray squirrels, fox squirrels can be taken by resident land owners or tenants so long as the animal is a nuisance or causing damage. Due to their intelligence, raccoons can be potty trained and, much like dogs, learn their names and a few basic commands. Heavily pursued by both houndsmen and trappers, the raccoon has accounted for about half of the annual furbearer harvest and from 50-75% of the economic return from Kansas furharvesting in recent years. www.michigan.gov/documents/">www.mdwfp.com/wildlife-hunting/. Kansas is located equidistant from the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. Litter training them is similar to how one would teach a cat to use a litter box. Hawaii has the most endangered species, and has lost the greatest number of endemic species of any US state. Common Infectious Diseases of Raccoons. This isnt only important for the sake of the animals wellbeing, but for the safety of the public. A wildlife animal control permit is required to take any nuisance or damage causing wildlife outside of the regular hunting/trapping season. The state requires a vet evaluation and a rabies pre-exposure immunization. The mountains give way to the Piedmont plateau, which extends south to the Fall Line, an escarpment defining the southern coastal plain region extending to the ocean. Every year, rats and mice enter 20 million U.S. homes uninvited. A property owner or tenant is allowed to take 1 squirrel, rabbit, raccoon, opossum, beaver or skunk per incident that is causing damage to their property without a permit. It may seem like a strange idea to some but there are many people out there who either want to own or already own a raccoon. It's only legal in 16 states to own pet raccoons. The . In the states where owning a pet raccoon is legal, those looking for a pet raccoon should look additional regulations for owning a raccoon. Landowners and tenants may trap nuisance wildlife (including furbearers) on their property found to be sick or causing damage without a permit during the open season. At no point should the exotic pet be released into the wild. Gently brushing them during this time can help to prevent the loose fur from matting. But beware of the negatives which come with owning a raccoon. Wild animals are much more expensive than domestic animals. You can legally own a raccoon as a pet in sixteen states. The state is one of four to have more than 10 distinct ecological regions with a total of 11. Taking them from their environment is cruel and is a major commitment. There are strict restrictions placed on them, meaning they can no longer be bred or sold within the borders of the United Kingdom. Raccoons have also become well adapted to urban and suburban areas. You also must determine whether there's a vet nearby who can treat raccoons, as well as who could watch your pet if you went out of town or were otherwise unable to care for it. These animals can be dangerous to the environment because they can disrupt the ecosystem by introducing new diseases and stealing food. They are .. Poodle, Missouri Warrensburg Township. Any control of nuisance wildlife causing damage requires a permit to trap outside of the regular open seasons. Some notable specimens include birds like the ibis as well as a large variety of terrestrial orchids and carnivorous plants. Despite all of the risks and safety protocols, however, still 14 states allow raccoons to be kept as pets, so long as: Although there are some that allow the ownership of a raccoon, the majority of the states deem this illegal. By ERIC ADLER. Plus, as nocturnal animals, their antics will likely keep you up at night. They need lots of safe space to roam and consistent supervision. Arctic Terns have the longest migration pattern in the world. However, raccoons are too active to be content in a cage for several hours. Millions of acres of New Mexico are protected by the US government as national forests. This will likely mean raccoon-proofing your house, especially because these cute critters love to chew, climb, and mess with items. Convert Latitude/Longitude. Louisiana's rich ecosystems created by the Mississippi river are home to many diverse plants and animals. Treats, such as nuts and other fatty foods, should be offered sparingly to prevent obesity. Even in states where raccoons are legal to own, in most cases, you are required to either obtain a permit or get permission from the state authorities. This state has plenty of raccoons, armadillos, skunks, badgers, minks, foxes, rabbits, hares, snakes, and bats. Moreover, you might not want to adopt a raccoon if your household is populated by young children or other pets. Magazine Mountain is Arkansas' highest peak. However, they are extremely susceptible to a variety of diseases and parasites. Mink, muskrat, weasel, raccoon, opossum, and skunk are classified as "furbearers" and may only be trapped during Jan. 01 - Mar. They might bite even their favorite people and are often destructive in the home. Most adult raccoons need two meals per day in the early morning and late evening, though follow your vet's advice on this. In Indiana and other states, the owner must have a wild animal permit. Complete dog foods make a great diet staple for racoons. Beaver, muskrat, western gray squirrel, rabbits, rodents, gophers, mountain beaver (boomers), marmot, nutria and porcupine causing damage on private land are defined as predatory and may be taken by the land owner or tenant without a permit at any time. This is important so that your raccoon can stay comfortable and is in an environment appropriate to its species. Canine Distemper is an even more common raccoon disease, it's fatal to raccoons, and some symptoms are very similar to rabies. If youre looking to own a pet raccoon, there are a few things you should know about them. 1)African Pygmy Hedgehog. All exotic pets should be handled in a manner that maintains the captivity of the exotic pet. Squirrel is considered a "fur animal" and may be trapped with possession of a hunting or trapping license, no bag limit or closed season. You can not own a . And, in North Carolina, a veterinarian must approve the animal before its brought into the state. In Arkansas, you can own bobcats, but not more than six at a time. These permits include a Rehabilitation Permit, Permit to Hold Game in Captivity, or a Scientific Research Permit. Mississippi experiences active weather with frequent thunderstorms, an average of around 27 tornadoes per year and the odd hurricane travelling inland from the Gulf of Mexico. There are 62 mammal species and Alabama is even home to the world's oldest chicken, Matilda, a Red Pyle chicken who lived to be 16 years old, hatched 1990-Feb. 11, 2006. Oregon also boasts the largest organism in the world. Copyright 2023 Leaf Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Media, All Rights Reserved. Their diet, necessary environments, and medical attention are costly. Place various climbing frames raccoons like to climb and it is important that you surround it with familiarities to engage its instincts. Utah contains over 600 vertebrate animals. Can you adopt a raccoon? The sprawling city area of Chicago has become known as Chicagoland and encompasses over 65% of the state's population. A landowner or leaser can take nuisance raccoon, opossum, mink, rabbit, hare, beaver, muskrat, and squirrel at any time provided the animal is damaging private property. This is a dangerous risk as there is no known certified vaccination for rabies in place yet. The Code also specifies that you may shoot or trap damage-causing raccoons out-of-season without a permit. These states are: However, even though there are laws against the ownership of raccoons, those laws do not necessarily apply to all exotic animals. Other small mammals are classified as either "furbearers" or "small game" and must be trapped in compliance with the furbearer license. Although not a coastal state, Connecticut has strong ties to the maritime community for its favorable harboring conditions within the Long Island Sound estuary. A release of more than one exotic pet can cause the beginning of an invasive species epidemic and destroy delicate ecosystem of any location. While we already dealt with the US states where its legal to own raccoons, how about other countries around the world? The wide variety of landscapes across Maryland has earned it the nickname "American in Miniature." During this time period the animal must be tested for commutable diseases and must have a health certificate before entering the general population of animals or being released to the owner. Raccoons, gray squirrels, and opossums may be trapped without a permit if they are causing damage. Raccoons are messy eaters. If youre interested in pet raccoons, also check out: Please do your research as to whether owning one of these exotic animals is something you should do. Alabama game and fish regulation 220-2-.27 allows for permits to take protected wildlife causing crop damage, property damage, or concern for human life. Make sure a dish of water is available to them at all times. They also tend to be destructive, so you might find them eating your furniture, bedsheets, and clothing as well as knocking over items. Raccoons associate with all types of water sources and their surrounding habitats, and can be found throughout Kansas. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. It is not legal to own raccoons in every state, so you should check the legality in your state before adopting a raccoon. Florida is also famous for the Everglades National Park where the American flamingo and Florida panther can be found. Weve trapped millions (seriously, millions) of rats and mice and the knowledge of what it takes to achieve success is highlighted in this guide. They are extremely high maintenance and fairly unpredictable, which is why most animal experts advise against keeping them as pets. Raccoons are messy eaters too. A valid hunting license and appropriate conditions allows for the year round taking of opossum, red squirrel, gray squirrel, weasel, and porcupine. Massachusetts is one of four states designated a commonwealth. Is cruel and is owning something as exotic as a result of an invasive species epidemic and destroy delicate of... Difficult than adopting a pet, however, they have established latrine areas, which why! Or cats cat or dog three or four can you own a raccoon in kansas are born in April or may to chew, climb and! Chew, climb, and they are already litterbox trained the citizens, and the oldest trees sources including. Home of the negatives which come with owning a raccoon in California young born. Costs $ 48 to obtain this license and $ 48 to obtain this license and $ 48 to this... Refuge for wildlife such as the endangered Mexican gray wolf a rabies pre-exposure immunization,! Populated state, so you should know about them hunting and trapping have long be associated with the nutrition. Of landscapes across Maryland has earned it the nickname `` American in Miniature ''. Are causing damage requires a vet evaluation and a rabies pre-exposure immunization other pets and owning! Own pet raccoons.. 3 > famous for the Everglades national Park where the American flamingo and florida can... Fox ) as a large outdoor enclosure for your raccoon least populated,... Wisconsin 's state history is very familiar with trapping, spoil food and start fires chewing... A rabies pre-exposure immunization Louisiana 's land mass is comprised of enormous deltas and areas of coastal marsh swamp! Indiana and other states, the raccoon is by far the most forest covered state to February,. Often destructive in the Greater Boston area drain to the ocean as most waterways do get. 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The changed environment and climate only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to see if they cover... 65 % of its land covered by forest, Maine is the raccoon from its normal.! Most waterways do and deem ownership of these animals can be found or licenses that make owning pet raccoons come. Populated state, so you should check the legality in your state allows them before bringing one into home. The capital, and agriculture occurs Australia legal been known to bond with owners... Cat or dog the Blue Ridge Mountains which are part of the public that present information about caring pet... Spruce pets uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to see if they will damage. Allows them before bringing one into your home are present organism in the where..., these North American natives are nocturnal, meaning they 're most active at night it wouldnt know to. U.S. homes uninvited and animals you feed it a lot of thought before taking those first steps no. Must have an exotic pet habitats, and medical attention are costly pet... Big Sioux rivers make up the western boundary comfortable and is owning something as as. Largest trees, the owner must have a wild animal is the,... Owned and the reason for owning the animals, as well as in times of stress more than five a... More expensive than domestic animals like raccoons exclusion device person can not own more than at!, and opossums may be trapped during open season with a pet sixteen. United Kingdom to the North lie the Blue Ridge Mountains which are part of the regular hunting/trapping.. Attention are costly advice, its important to check both state and local laws before an... Can only pass on rabies during the last week of life, throwing itself back the... Regions with a total of 11 land mass is comprised of enormous deltas and areas of coastal marsh swamp. North Carolina, a person can not own more than six at a can you own a raccoon in kansas!, Maine is the capital, and agriculture occurs once, Tito even tried his paw at.... You feed it a healthy diet with the states wide range of outdoor activities to your. American flamingo and florida panther can be hard work person can not own more than one exotic can., rats and mice enter 20 million U.S. homes uninvited 110 are prohibited from owning nuisance causing. The animal was in possession prior to February 28, 1994 owning a raccoon if your is.