FAQs

In the United States, the possession and care of birds of prey, also known as raptors, is regulated under the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) as well as various state laws. Birds of prey are protected species, and it is generally illegal to own, sell, or possess them without proper permits.
‍
If someone is interested in owning a bird of prey, it's not a matter of simply buying one as a pet. Rather, they would have to become a licensed falconer by applying with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and each individual state's Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

A bird cage is a small, typically indoor structure designed for a few small to medium-sized pet birds. It's portable and suitable for a domestic setting.

An aviary, however, is a large, indoor or outdoor structure that mimics a bird's natural habitat. It is often meant for multiple or larger birds, mostly used in zoos, by breeders and experienced bird enthusiasts.

The largest ever recorded size for a Koi fish is approximately 4 feet 3 inches (1.3 meters) in length. This exceptional size was achieved by a Koi fish conveniently known as "Big Girl". She was a Kohaku variety Koi that weighed around 91 pounds (41 kilograms), gaining worldwide recognition for her impressive measurements.

While such extraordinary sizes are quite rare, the average length of a fully grown Koi fish typically ranges between 2 to 3 feet (0.6 to 0.9 meters).

Fish have limited cognitive abilities compared to mammals, so their capacity to recognize their owners or form social bonds with humans is quite limited.

Although some species of fish may show associative learning and become more comfortable around familiar individuals, ​​this behavior is often primarily based on conditioned responses rather than profound emotional connections.

Praying Mantises are voracious carnivores with a diverse appetite. They primarily feed on a variety of insects, including mosquitoes, grasshoppers, cockroaches, moths, and caterpillars. However, Mantises can also exhibit cannibalistic behavior, particularly during or after mating.
‍
Their specialized forelegs, called raptorial legs, are used to seize and immobilize their prey. Interestingly, it is not uncommon for larger Mantises to feed on small vertebrates, such as lizards, mice and even birds. 

In the United States, it's generally permissible to own Giant African Millipedes as pets. This extends to all species of millipedes, provided that they have been acquired domestically. It's important to note that while ownership is legal, the importation of any non-native species of millipede into the U.S. is prohibited.

When handling a Hedgehog, it's important to approach your pet calmly and gently. Prior to handling, wash your hands to remove any scents that might startle them. Use both hands to securely support their body, providing a sense of security, and pay close attention to any signs of distress. 

Make sure to provide a soft surface for them to sit on during handling and avoid touching sensitive areas like their face, feet, and quills. Eventually, you will be able to gradually extend the duration of your handling sessions, allowing your hedgehog to become more accustomed to the experience. 

Sugar Gliders are legal to own as pets in most states throughout the United States. However, there are a few exceptions. Some states, including Georgia, New Mexico, and Pennsylvania will require owners to obtain a special permit for legal ownership of a Sugar Glider.

On the flip side, there are currently three states where the keeping of Sugar Gliders as pets is completely prohibited. These states are Alaska, California, and Hawaii. The ban on sugar gliders in these states primarily stems from concerns about the potential impact of exotic animals on the native wildlife populations in their respective regions.

Chameleons change their colors primarily for communication and thermoregulation. The color change serves as a non-verbal language, conveying their emotional state and intentions to other chameleons.

Brighter colors might signify dominance or a mating call, while subdued hues can indicate submission or stress. These color changes also help with temperature regulation, enabling chameleons to absorb or reflect light and heat based on their environmental conditions.

In the case of managing the diet of a Ball Python that is under a year old, and approximately 10-16 inches in length, the selected prey would typically equate to fuzzy or hopper mice, with a weight in the region of 10-15g.
‍
As your python journeys into its second year, growing between 20-30 inches, its dining table needs an upgrade too. Now, adult mice or weanling rats would be the appropriate meal, weighing between 18-50g.
‍
When your python matures beyond its second year, surpassing 30 inches, it's time to introduce the big league: medium to large rats, weighing a sturdy 90-200g.