New York State has some of the strictest laws in the country when it comes to exotic pets. In general, it is illegal to own, sell, or breed any wild animal without a permit from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). However, there are some exotic pets that are legal to own in New York with a permit. These pets include:

What Exotic Pets Are Legal in New York

Non-venomous Reptiles

1. Snakes: Some species of snakes are legal to own in New York, including corn snakes, ball pythons, and milk snakes.

2. Lizards: Some species of lizards are also legal to own, such as leopard geckos, bearded dragons, and iguanas.

3. Turtles: Some species of turtles are legal to own, such as red-eared sliders, painted turtles, and eastern box turtles.

Birds

1. Parrots: Some species of parrots are legal to own, such as budgies, cockatiels, and macaws.

2. Finches: Some species of finches are legal to own, such as zebra finches and society finches.

3. Canaries: Canaries are also legal to own in New York.

Fish

1. Tropical fish: Many species of tropical fish are legal to own, such as guppies, tetras, and cichlids.

2. Marine fish: Some species of marine fish are legal to own, such as clownfish, damselfish, and triggerfish.

3. Goldfish: Goldfish are also legal to own in New York.

Small Mammals

1. Hamsters: Hamsters are legal to own in New York.

2. Gerbils: Gerbils are also legal to own.

3. Guinea pigs: Guinea pigs are also legal to own in New York.

Other Exotic Pets

1. Ferrets: Ferrets are also legal to own in New York.

2. Hedgehogs: Hedgehogs are also legal to own in New York.

3. Sugar gliders: Sugar gliders are also legal to own in New York.

It is important to note that the laws regarding exotic pets in New York can change frequently. Before acquiring an exotic pet, it is important to check with DEC to make sure that the animal is legal to own in New York and to obtain the necessary permits.