The Pros And Cons Of Exotic Pet Trade

The exotic pet trade is a booming industry, raking in millions of dollars every year. Everything from harmless leopard geckos to hyenas can be found in 30 of the 50 states. Of those 30 states, only 21 require permits to own these animals (Webber 2010). Indiana has just recently withdrawn its own requirement for permits, making 10 states that allow any kind of exotics without documentation (Kelly 2015). It is estimated that 15,000 big cats are being kept as pets in the United States alone, with more captive tigers in Texas than there are in India. Approximately 15,000 primates and 7.3 million reptiles are also being kept in the US (Webber 2010). What does all of this mean and, more importantly, what can be done about it?

First and foremost, it has a large impact on the wild populations. Not all exotic pets are captive bred, meaning they were taken from the wild. This reduces population sizes and genetic variation (Bush et. al 2014). In fact, if the animals are in high enough demand, it can actually cause extinction. For instance, the Great Auk was once a very common species in Iceland and Canada. It was used for everything from meat to down pillows. When populations began to decline due to the

However, there are ways to correct the issues with the present system. If all 50 states and other countries around the world were to institute stricter regulations, such as those mentioned above, it would help make owning exotics safer. Animals like lions and puff adders have no place being in anyone’s home, but other animals like ball pythons and leopard geckos are reasonable. The most important thing that the authorities can do to help regulate the exotic pet trade and reduce the potential damage caused by it, is to educate the public. It is essential that people be involved in and aware of decisions that are being made. Especially decisions that concern their safety and that of the world around