I watched Tiger King over quarantine and was shocked at how many people actually own big cats as pets. I started wondering what animals are illegal to own in Minnesota.

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According to the City of Saint Paul's website there are several animals you can't keep as a pet. Those animals include;

  • Chimpanzees
  • Monkeys
  • Raccoons
  • Skunks
  • Sugar gliders
  • Any big cats (cougars, jaguars, leopards, lions, ocelots, tigers)
  • Any crossbreed of a dog with a coyote, wolf, dingoes or jackals)
  • You can't own a red-eared turtle with a shell less than 4 inches

You also can't own any animals that are prohibited by federal or state law, which includes bears. If you're wondering why, it's because the animals on this list could be a danger to you or others. Also, some of these animals need certain environments in order to thrive.

So, what animals or species can you own in Minnesota? Well, that depends sometimes on your city ordinance. Some places in Minnesota allow bees, but some don't. You have to check with your local ordinance as well as state and federal law.

The violation for owning a prohibited animal in the land of 10,000 lakes according to the site Animal Law ranges depending on the offense. A guilty person could face misdemeanor or felony charges as well as jail or prison time. They could also have to pay a fine of not more than $5,000.

The bottom line is, no lions, tigers and bears oh-my can be owned as your pet in Minnesota.

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