10 Exotic Pets You Can Own

It's Tootsday once again! And yes, I'm going to hit you with another list today. But I can guarantee you that this one is going to be better than last week's one. Why? 

Because today we're going to talk about 10 exotic pets you can own! 

1. Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches

Source: http://entomology.unl.edu/k12/croach/roachinfo/roachpage.html

That's right, keeping cockroaches as pets! Well, I'm sure many might be disgusted by the thought of it, but there are people out there who actually keep these cockroaches as pets. 

These cockroaches are natives of the island, Madagascar and have a lifespan of 1 - 3 years. Their name is derived from the hissing sound that they make and they don't fly or bite. Taking care of them is simple too, mainly because they require little care. Again, lazy pet owners like me right?

2. Tarantulas

Source: http://www.hdwallpapersinn.com/tarantula-hd-wallpapers.html

I'm sure all of you know what a Tarantula is right? Those hairy little spiders. These creatures are found everywhere except for Antartica and they can live up to 10 - 25 years. Although it really creeps me out when I found out that some people like Tarantulas, I have to admit, some spiders are pretty. Just some. Well, I guess beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

3. Emperor Scorpion

Source: http://animal-world.com/encyclo/reptiles/scorpions/EmperorScorpion.php

These bad boys are one of the largest species of scorpions in the world. They are normally found in West African rainforests and can grow up to 8 inches long. They have a hard exterior and also venom, which is mild, but it still can hurt you if you get stung by it. So if you're going to own one, be careful!

4. Bearded Dragons

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Bearded_Dragon_showing_beard.jpg

  The Bearded Dragon is found in Australia and have a life span of 5 - 8 years. Why are they called "Bearded Dragons"? Well, take a guess! That's right, it's because it looks like a dragon, well... with a beard around its head. It's a really popular exotic pet despite its intimidating appearance. So, if exotic's your thing, try getting one of these "dragons".

5. Snakes

Source: http://www.petsadviser.com/pet-health/snake-skin-problems/

Oh my, I'm getting goosebumps writing this. Not sure if you know, but some people keep snakes as their beloved pets. Snakes can live up to more than 20 years, so having one of them as a pet requires long term commitment. To have a snake, you also have to be willing to feed it prey animals like rats. And be sure to keep some storage space in your freezer for your pet food! 

Not to mention, snakes are really good escape artists. Many snake owners have escape-proof tanks just to prevent their pet snakes from escaping. But still, there are chances of them escaping! I wouldn't recommend this pet to anyone who doesn't like waking up to a snake slithering in you bed.

6. Bush Baby

Source: http://www.somepets.com/10-cutest-most-cuddly-exotic-pets/

Like what the name suggests, it looks like a baby! Aww~ I mean, look at those big watery eyes! Sad news is that, the Bush Baby species is an endangered one in Africa. They can live up to 10 - 15 years and are agile. These cute little critters are omnivorous so that makes feeding them a whole lot easier.

7. Sugar Glider

 Source: http://www.legacyamc.com/3-common-sugar-glider-ailments/

Here's another cute and cuddly one for you! Presenting the Sugar Glider! These cute squirrel-like animals can live up to 12 - 14 years. They are found in Australia, Indonesia and New Guinea. Their main diet consists of nectar and the saps of eucalyptus. But one thing to note if you ever plan on owning one is that, you have to allow it to interact with others of its species, otherwise they might end up depressed. If they are too depressed, they could die. So take note of that.

8. Fennec Fox

Source: http://www.cutenessoverflow.com/fennec-fox/

The Fennec Fox, also known as the desert fox, behave in many ways like a dog does. They usually weigh around 2 - 3.5 pounds. The Fennec Fox is very active and agile, just like many dogs are. So taking care of them would be really similar to how you would take care of a dog. Like taking them out for walks regularly and other things that you would do as a dog owner. But when taking them out on walks, remember to leash them, for they are really quick and you might never see them again. 

9. Wallabies

Source: http://animals.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/wallaby/

Wallabies are cute pets that are well, really cute, in my opinion. You have to provide them with ample space in your household to run and also hide. These pets are herbivores so they spend most of their time grazing on grass. I guess having one of these help save a lot on pet food, right? If they are close to you, they will follow you around the house and also get along with the rest of your pets. Aren't they the sweetest things!

10. Slow Loris

Source: http://www.businessinsider.com.au/slow-loris-adorable-video-2012-10

Slow Loris is a primate that can be found in countries like India, Borneo, China and Bangledash. They can weigh up to 2kg and grow up to 16 inches in length. Their diets are a little more special because they can only eat rare fruits found in their natural habitats. So in comparison to the Wallabies, these ones are a little harder to take care of. Oh another thing I forgot to mention, they actually can inject poison if they ever bite you with their sharp teeth. Don't judge a book by it's cover, or it'll kill you! 

So I have to told you about 10 exotic pets that you can own, and if you want to own one of these in my list, remember to do your research on whether it is legal to own these pets in your respective countries! Not all countries allow these exotic beauties as pets, so make sure to do your homework!

Ciao,
Megan Siew