Raccoons are often seen as cute and curious creatures, and some people may be tempted to keep them as pets. However, is it legal to have a pet raccoon in Florida? The answer is: not really.

Is It Legal to Have a Pet Raccoon in Florida?

Raccoons Are Protected Wildlife in Florida

Under Florida law, raccoons are classified as protected wildlife. This means that it is illegal to possess, transport, or release a raccoon without a permit from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). The FWC only issues permits for specific purposes, such as research or rehabilitation. Keeping a raccoon as a pet is not one of these purposes.

Raccoons Can Carry Diseases

In addition to being against the law, keeping a raccoon as a pet can also be dangerous. Raccoons can carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans, such as rabies, raccoon roundworm, and leptospirosis. These diseases can be serious, and some of them can even be fatal.

Raccoons Are Not Good Pets

Even if it were legal to keep a raccoon as a pet, it is important to remember that raccoons are wild animals. They are not domesticated, and they can be unpredictable. Raccoons can be destructive, and they may also bite or scratch if they feel threatened.

Alternatives to Keeping a Pet Raccoon

If you are interested in observing raccoons, there are many ways to do so without keeping one as a pet. You can visit a zoo or wildlife sanctuary, or you can go on a guided raccoon tour. You can also watch raccoons in the wild, but be sure to keep a safe distance.

Conclusion

Keeping a raccoon as a pet is illegal in Florida, and it is also dangerous. Raccoons are wild animals, and they are not suitable to be kept as pets. If you are interested in observing raccoons, there are many ways to do so without keeping one as a pet.