Aug 06, 2025

8 Animals You Didn’t Know Are Illegal to Keep as Pets

Aanya Mehta

Monkey

Many think they’re fun companions, but monkeys are protected under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. It’s illegal to own them.

Source: Google Images

Indian Parakeets

Commonly sold in markets, but it's illegal to cage native parakeets in India, even for breeding or entertainment.

Source: Google Images

Snakes

From cobras to rat snakes, all native Indian snake species are protected. Possessing or trading them is a punishable offense.

Source: Google Images

Tortoise

Often sold as “lucky” pets, the Indian Star Tortoise is critically protected, and illegal to buy or own.

Source: Google Images

Birds of Prey

Owning any raptor, including owls is banned under Indian wildlife laws.

Source: Google Images

Indian Squirrels

They may look adorable, but native Indian squirrel species cannot legally be kept as pets.

Source: Google Images

Deer and Antelopes

No matter how exotic they look, owning any wild deer species, like Chinkara or Blackbuck is strictly prohibited.

Source: Google Images

Elephants

Privately owned elephants are strictly regulated and new ownership is banned. They are highly protected under Indian law.

Source: Google Images

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