Exotic Animals: 12 of the World’s Most Expensive Legal Pets to Own

From: http://urbansavior.com/

Monkeys, Lions and Chimpanzees are animals we often see in the wild or on the Discovery Channel, however many of these exotic animals can be purchased legally within the United States. Living in an acceptable jurisdiction and acquiring the correct permit could get you an exotic pet that most of the world only dream of.

12 – Bengal Cat. Price Tag: $800-$3,000

The Bengal Cat is bred by mating a domestic black shorthaired cat with an Asian Leopard cat.

As with many hybrids the goal is to create a domestic cat in size and demeanor with the exotic Asian Leopard Cat appearance and coloring.

As with most hybrid cats, the breed becomes more and more domesticated with each successive generation, therefore the ideal domesticated breed would be at least three to five generations removed from the original breed.

11 – Snow Macaque. Price Tag: $3,500

The Snow Macaque is considered a threatened species as we continue to encroach on more and more of the animal’s habitat.

Coveted licenses and special permits are mandated to own this very rare animal.

The Snow Macaque is a smaller primate with a lifespan of over 25 years with the distinguishing feature of a hairless red face.

10 – Squirrel Monkey. Price Tag: $4,000

This primate is about the size of a squirrel thus name after that. Generally the squirrel monkey does not get any bigger than 2 pounds and is considered a very social, affectionate and peaceful animal.

These complacent characteristics make the animal a highly desired pet, however as with most of these animals, many states do not allow them to be privately owned.

9 – Chinese Crested Hairless Puppies. Price Tag: $4,000-$5,000

These dogs weigh about 5 to 12 lbs and are very vivacious, alert and friendly animals. Considered to be one of the rarest dogs, these dogs are prone to sunburning on a hot and clear day.

8 – Savannah Cat. Price Tag: $4,000-$10,000

Bred in a similar process to the Bengal Cat, the Savannah Cat is bred by mating the African Serval with a smaller domestic cat.

Concurrently, the gestation periods between the two animals are different.

Due to these factors, the Savannah is a more expensive and rare breed.

7 – Mona Guenon. Price Tag: $6,000  

The Mona Guenon’s natural habitat is within the Western African tropical forests, however this animal is capable of adapting to any forest environment. Therefore, despite special permits and licenses to own this animal, it is not considered an endangered specie.

6 – Debrazzas Monkey. Price Tag: $10,000

The DeBrazza’s Monkey is easily recognizable by its white beard and yellowish gray fur.

Life span of these species is about 22 years.

Though many people do shell out the hefty price for this primate, they become disappointed when the docile and tender babies grow to become unpredictable and hostile adults.

5 – Striped Ball Python. Price Tag: $10,000

Master Python Breeder, Bob Clark states that he has an exclusive on this genetic striped ball python.

The prominent stripe is what makes this reptile very unique. More clearly, the striped ball showcases a yellow dorsal stripe with a a black border, clearly differentiating them from any other snake.

4 – Hyacinth Macaw. Price Tag: $6,500-12,000

Macaws overall are very expensive. Generally costs $20,000 a pair.

These magnificent birds are about 40 inches long and have a bright blue coloring. Their wing span is about four feet and these birds make popular pets despite their expensive price tag.

3 – Reticulated Albino Type II Tiger Python. Price Tag: $15,000

ТMaster Python Breeder, Bob Clark’s Reticulated Albino Type II Tiger Pythons sell for $15,000 each.

An extremely rare breed, these pythons showcase a co-dominant tiger pattern, making them extremely popular in the snake world.

2 – Chimpanzee. Price Tag: $60,000-$65,000

Chimpanzees are highly intelligent primates and are closely related to humans. Chimpanzees weigh about 115 lbs and the male is slightly larger than the female.

The natural habitat of the Chimpanzee is within central Africa and western Africa. Though an endangered specie, Chimps are legal pets in some states.

1 – White Lion Cubs. Price Tag: $138,000 

White Tigers are very rare because of a recessive gene and the animals are not considered to be albino.

The White Tiger’s eye color is similar to the regular tigers, however the coat pigmentation and skin are not.

Due to price, demand, upkeep and scarcity, the White Lion remains one of the most difficult animals in the world to obtain.