Madagascar

Run-of-the mill pet owners are content to own dogs, cats, or hamsters. For the truly adventurous animal-lover, the average pet store standard just won’t satisfy. If you’re one of those pet enthusiasts who loves exotic and unusual creatures, read on. Here are 15 unreal (but legal) pets for your consideration. Subscribe to Talltanic http://goo.gl/wgfvrr 7. Wallaroo Wallaroos are cousins to the kangaroo and the wallaby, ranking in size between the two animals (hence the name). They live between 15 and 20 years, making them a fantastic long-term pet. Although their needs make them difficult to own for some, these animals are highly trainable and very gentle. Best for: People who can provide a large outdoor habitat. Wallaroos need ample exercise and space to roam. Just make sure you build a very tall fence, as these animals can jump. 6. Capybara The world’s largest rodent, the capybara, can weigh up to 140 pounds full grown. We’re not sure how an animal that big qualifies as a rodent, but if you like groundhogs or hamsters, this is a step up (in every way possible). Capybaras are intelligent, social, and gentle under most circumstances. Just keep your favorite pair of shoes hidden--capybaras will chew on just about anything. Best for: Owners who can provide plenty of space, attention, and handle more than one animal. Capybaras are herd creatures like many other rodents. They’re also great swimmers, so a nearby water feature or pool would serve you well. 5. Skunk Why would anyone want a stink-tastic skunk as a pet? For starters, they’re sensitive, intelligent, and very trainable, much like a domestic cat. Upon adoption, vets take out the glands that spray foul-spelling odor, so that’s a non-factor. Just be sure that a skunk is what you truly want as a pet. It’s illegal to take a domesticated skunk back into the wild, as they can no longer defend themselves against predators. Also, opt for a skunk that’s been bred in captivity as opposed to a wild skunk. Domesticated skunks are more trusting of humans. Best for: People whose home states actually allow skunk ownership (many states do not), and can provide the patient training and ample attention the animal deserves. 4. Pygmy Hippopotamus Love the looks of the hippopotamus (but don’t own a zoo)? Pygmy hippopotami are much smaller and less aggressive than their gigantic cousins. In the wild, this species is endangered--good luck finding a pygmy bred in captivity. This very solitary, nocturnal animal is about the size of a puppy when born, and half the size of a regular hippo in its adulthood. Best for: Actual zookeepers, rich people who can afford the expensive care and keeping (plus environment) required. This is truly an exotic pet. 3. Emperor Scorpion One man’s “Ick!” is another man’s “Awesome”. Such is the case with these African stunners, who can live up to 8 years in captivity with the proper care. And while they do sting, the pain is likened to that of a bee sting. Theses arachnids don’t enjoy being handled, but if you desire a pet with a frightening appearance, the emperor is king. Best for: Attentive caregivers (scorpions require specialized food and bottled water for misting). And if you plan on leaving town, be sure to find a scorpion babysitter who isn’t afraid of your beloved pet. 2. Piranhas Piranhas have the reputation for ripping the legs off of anything that wanders into their habitat. In reality, the piranha makes a relatively good aquarium pet. They rarely bite humans, unless of course you dangle your finger in front of them like a tasty worm. These speedy, entertaining Amazonians are available in a variety of breeds and colors and only have to be fed every other day, making them easier to care for than some of the other pets on this list. Best for: Experienced fish keepers willing to provide a warm, large aquarium and plenty of tank cleaning (as piranhas are relatively messy). If you feed your piranhas well, you can even keep certain types of other fish in the same tank with these little meat-eaters. 1. Madagascar hissing cockroaches Do you long for a pet that will scare away your annoying relatives? You may be surprised to find that not everyone in the world squishes cockroaches-- some people keep them as pets! Hissing cockroaches are wingless, bacteria-free, and calm, making them a surprisingly good pet for children or people with very little bug-keeping experience. You just have to get past the fact that you’re feeding and caring for…a cockroach. Best for: Nine-year old boys who want to scare their sisters.

• published: 10 Feb 2016
• views: 118772