The Sunshine State is known for its wildlife and unique ecosystems. But did you know you could have a part of this beauty in your own home? In Florida there is a variety of pets that you could own. Animals fall into multiple different categories such as: “No Permit Required”, “Class II wildlife”, and “Class III wildlife”.

No permit is needed to possess the following species as a personal pet: nonvenomous and unprotected reptiles or amphibians, gerbils, hedgehogs, honey possums, sugar gliders, rats, mice, moles, shrews, rabbits, squirrels, chipmunks, domestic ferrets, European ferrets, guinea pigs, hamsters, prairie dogs, chinchillas, shell parakeets, canaries, lovebirds, cockatiels, parrots, finches, myna birds, toucans, ringed doves, ruddy doves, diamond doves, and button quail.

Class II wildlife includes a variety of exotic animals that can be kept as pets with proper licenses and permits. These animals are certain species of big cats like ocelots, servals, caracals, and bobcats, as well as some primates like uakaris, sakis, and certain guenon species. As well as, crocodilians under 4 feet in length and some large carnivores, such as coyotes and wolves, can be kept as class II pets in Florida.

Similar to Class II, Class III wildlife as pets includes a broad range of animals, including many popular exotic pets. This category includes various bird species like parrots, macaws, and cockatoos, as well as reptiles such as snakes lizards, and turtles. Additionally, many small mammals like sugar gliders, chinchillas  ferrets fall under class III Its important to note that while these animals can be legally kept as pets in Florida, specific permits and licenses may be required, especially for certain species or quantities. Always consult with the Florida and wildlife conservation commission (FWC) to ensure compliance with all regulations.