Thinking of an Exotic Pet?

Before you buy that exotic animal online, be sure to check out Massachusetts laws on the subject. The best place to start is the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife's Keeping Captive / Exotic Wildlife, which summarizes the applicable laws. Those wanting more detail should read the following sources of primary law:

• MGL c.131, s.23:  Licensing requirements for fish, birds, reptiles, mammals and amphibians
• MGL c.131, s.77A: Wild canine and felid hybrids
• 321 CMR 2.12: Artificial Propagation of Birds, Mammals, Reptiles, and Amphibians.
• 321 CMR 9: Exotic Pets Exemption List. Lists "species which are exempt from the licensing provisions of MGL c. 131, § 23. This list includes wild (i.e., non-domesticated) vertebrate animals which may be imported, sold or possessed without a permit."

More information on animals in Massachusetts is available at Mass. Law About Animals.