12-05-2025
What animals are illegal to own in Alabama? Here's what the penalty could be if caught
Macon County, Ala. authorities responded to a two-car crash on Interstate 85 Wednesday morning caused by a furry, hopping marsupial.
A kangaroo escaped its enclosure from a nearby resident, who kept it as a pet for a local petting zoo.
While it's not common to spot these Australian natives in Alabama, their non-native status in the state makes them illegal to own as pets.
What other animals are prohibited to keep as pets in Alabama? Here's what we know:
The state has banned the possession, sale or release of dozens of animals and fish that officials say could harm local ecosystems or pose risk to people. The list includes notorious species like walking catfish, black carp and venomous snakes not naturally found in Alabama. It also covers animals already listed as dangerous under federal law.
The regulations aim to protect Alabama's native ecosystems from environmental damage and threats to public safety.
In Alabama, it is illegal to own or transport animals unless you are a licensed game breeder or have a special permit such as:
Tegu
Mongooses
Jackrabbits
San Juan rabbits
Deer
Elk
Coyotes
Raccoons
Foxes
Skunks
Bobcats
Wild pigs
Wild turkey
Mountain lion
Bears
Kangaroos
Nonindigenous venomous reptiles
Protected wild birds
The law even covers releasing non-native species of seafood into public waters. You must also have written permission from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to intentionally stock or release seafood into the waters they originate from.
There are exceptions for farmers raising turkeys for personal use and for accredited research or wildlife rehab centers, but only with written permission from the state.
In Alabama, there are significant penalties if you are caught possessing or importing a banned animal. There are fines up to $5,000 and jail time of up to 30 days as it is a Class C misdemeanor.
Jennifer Lindahl is a Breaking and Trending Reporter for the Deep South Connect Team for Gannett/USA Today. Connect with her on X @jenn_lindahl and email at jlindahl@
This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: What animals are banned in Alabama and what happens if you're caught?
