Virginia has a number of laws regulating the ownership of exotic pets. These laws are designed to protect the public from dangerous animals, as well as to protect the animals themselves from neglect or abuse. Some of the animals that are illegal to own in Virginia include:

What Pets Are Illegal in Virginia

Big Cats

1. Lions

2. Tigers

3. Leopards

Bears

1. Black bears

2. Brown bears

3. Polar bears

Primates

1. Monkeys

2. Apes

3. Lemurs

Venomous Snakes

1. Rattlesnakes

2. Copperheads

3. Cottonmouths

Dangerous Reptiles

1. Crocodiles

2. Alligators

3. Komodo dragons

Birds of Prey

1. Eagles

2. Hawks

3. Falcons

In addition to these animals, it is also illegal to own any animal that is considered to be a public health hazard, such as a rabid animal or an animal that is carrying a contagious disease.

If you are considering owning an exotic pet, it is important to check the laws in your state to make sure that the animal is legal to own. You should also make sure that you have the proper facilities and experience to care for the animal properly.