9 Animals You Legally Can’t Keep As Pets in India

Jul 19, 2025 sushmita kumari

Indian Star Tortoise:

Keeping or trading this tortoise is illegal under the Wildlife Protection Act & CITES. They are highly trafficked and strictly protected. Source: pexels

Parakeets (Like Rose-ringed, Alexandrine):

Native Indian parakeets are protected birds you can't keep as pets. Caging them is illegal, even if bred in captivity. Source: pexels

Snakes, including Red Sand Boa, Cobra):

All native snakes are banned as pets. Venomous or not, it’s illegal to keep them under Indian law. Source: pexels

Slender Loris:

This tiny primate is endangered and fully protected. Possession is punishable by a fine or jail. Source: Wikipedia Commons

Macaques (Bonnet Macaque & Others):

Monkeys are not meant to be pets. All native monkeys are Schedule I species — keeping them is illegal. Source: pexels

Monitor & Spiny-tailed Lizards:

These reptiles are often hunted for their meat and skin. They are protected and can’t be owned, traded, or sold. Source: pexels

Owls (Barn Owl, Spotted Owlet):

All owl species in India are protected. Even using them in rituals or shows is a criminal offense. Source: pexels

Jungle Cat & Other Wild Cats:

Small wild cats like jungle cats look cute, but they’re illegal to keep as pets. They’re protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Act. Source: pexels

Other Strictly Banned Species:

Tigers, leopards, bears, elephants, pangolins, and red pandas – all are Schedule I species. No exceptions. Source: pexels

Know the law:

Always choose legal pets like dogs, cats, or permitted birds, and help in the conservation of nature Source: pexels

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