Owls are majestic and intriguing birds that have captured people’s imaginations for centuries. With their large, forward-facing eyes and ability to turn their heads 270 degrees, owls seem mysterious and wise. It’s no wonder many people dream of keeping an owl as a pet. However, owls require specialized care and housing, so they are not legal to own in every state. Determining what states allow owls as pets requires research into local and federal laws.
Federal Laws on Owning Owls
At the federal level, owning an owl is regulated by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918. This act protects migratory bird populations by making it illegal to own any native owl species without proper permits. Permits are only provided to educational or scientific institutions that require owls for education, research, rehabilitation, or propagation purposes.
There are two exceptions that allow private individuals to own native owls without a permit:
– Native owls that are imprinted on humans. Imprinted owls are birds that were hand-raised from a very young age and thus identify with humans rather than their own species. Imprinting an owl requires a special permit.
– Native owls that are incapable of surviving in the wild due to injury or damage. These owls may be kept after being rehabilitated but cannot be bought, sold or bartered.
The MBTA covers all native North American owl species, including great horned owls, barn owls, screech owls, saw-whet owls, and more. However, it does not regulate non-native owl species. This means that certain exotic owl species can be owned without permits if allowed by state law.
State Laws on Owning Owls
States have additional laws beyond federal regulations that determine if and how private citizens can own owls as pets. Some states allow possession of some species with the proper permits, while other states have total bans on private ownership of owls.
Here is an overview of owl pet laws in each U.S. state:
| State | Laws on Owning Owls as Pets |
|---|---|
| Alabama | Allowed with permit for native species. No permit needed for non-native species. |
| Alaska | All native owls prohibited. Non-native owls allowed without permit. |
| Arizona | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls. Non-native owls allowed without permit. |
| Arkansas | All private ownership prohibited. |
| California | All private ownership prohibited. |
| Colorado | Allowed with permit. Additional city/county restrictions may apply. |
| Connecticut | Allowed with permit. Additional restrictions on great horned owls. |
| Delaware | All private ownership prohibited. |
| Florida | Allowed with permit for imprinted native and non-native owls. |
| Georgia | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls and non-native owls. |
| Hawaii | All private ownership prohibited. |
| Idaho | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls. Non-native owls allowed without permit. |
| Illinois | Allowed with permit. Additional restrictions in certain counties. |
| Indiana | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls. Non-native owls allowed without permit. |
| Iowa | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls. Non-native owls allowed without permit. |
| Kansas | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls. Non-native owls allowed without permit. |
| Kentucky | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls. Non-native owls allowed without permit. |
| Louisiana | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls. Non-native owls allowed without permit. |
| Maine | All private ownership prohibited. |
| Maryland | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls. Non-native owls allowed without permit. |
| Massachusetts | All private ownership prohibited. |
| Michigan | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls and non-native owls. |
| Minnesota | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls. Non-native owls allowed without permit. |
| Mississippi | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls. Non-native owls allowed without permit. |
| Missouri | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls. Non-native owls allowed without permit. |
| Montana | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls and non-native owls. |
| Nebraska | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls and non-native owls. |
| Nevada | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls. Non-native owls allowed without permit. |
| New Hampshire | All private ownership prohibited. |
| New Jersey | All private ownership prohibited. |
| New Mexico | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls. Non-native owls allowed without permit. |
| New York | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls. Non-native owls allowed without permit. |
| North Carolina | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls. Non-native owls allowed without permit. |
| North Dakota | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls. Non-native owls allowed without permit. |
| Ohio | Allowed with permit. |
| Oklahoma | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls. Non-native owls allowed without permit. |
| Oregon | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls. Non-native owls allowed without permit. |
| Pennsylvania | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls and non-native owls. |
| Rhode Island | All private ownership prohibited. |
| South Carolina | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls. Non-native owls allowed without permit. |
| South Dakota | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls. Non-native owls allowed without permit. |
| Tennessee | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls. Non-native owls allowed without permit. |
| Texas | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls. Non-native owls allowed without permit. |
| Utah | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls. Non-native owls allowed without permit. |
| Vermont | All private ownership prohibited. |
| Virginia | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls. Non-native owls allowed without permit. |
| Washington | All private ownership prohibited. |
| West Virginia | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls. Non-native owls allowed without permit. |
| Wisconsin | Allowed with permit. |
| Wyoming | Allowed with permit for imprinted native owls. Non-native owls allowed without permit. |
As the table shows, a majority of states allow private ownership of imprinted native owls and non-native owls with proper permits. However, there are still many states with total bans or restrictions on which owl species can be owned as pets. It’s critical to research both state and local laws before obtaining an owl.
Some municipalities, towns, and counties have additional ordinances on top of state laws regulating pet owls. Be sure to check for any local restrictions if your state allows private owl ownership.
Popular Pet Owl Species
For states that permit non-native owl species to be kept as pets, the most popular options are:
– Eurasian Eagle Owl – One of the largest owl species, originating from Europe and Asia. Requires significant space and experienced handling.
– Great Horned Owl – Named for their prominent feathered ear tufts. A powerful predator requiring expertise to manage.
– Snowy Owl – Stunning white owls from the Arctic region. Considered easier to care for than other large owls.
– Eastern Screech Owl – Small but fierce hunters native to North America. Less demanding space and diet requirements.
– Elf Owl – The world’s lightest owl species, native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. Better suited for owners with owl experience.
– Burrowing Owl – Live in underground burrows in the wild. Unique small owls but require outdoor housing.
For those able to obtain permits in states allowing native owls, popular pet candidates include:
– Great Horned Owl
– Barn Owl
– Eastern Screech Owl
– Great Gray Owl
– Barred Owl
– Long-eared Owl
No matter the specific species, all owls make challenging pets requiring specialized care and housing. Never obtain an owl on impulse. Vet potential breeders carefully and prepare properly before taking on these majestic raptors.
Owl Pet Permit Requirements
To legally own a pet owl in a state allowing private ownership with a permit, you’ll need to go through an application process. Exact permit requirements vary, but often include:
– Detailed application describing your qualifications, housing plans, care experience with raptors, and more.
– Statement from an accredited vet approving your ability to care for an owl.
– Inspection of your owl housing by state wildlife officials. Sufficient indoor and outdoor enclosures must be demonstrated.
– Payment of permit fees, which range from $25 to $250 based on the state. Renewals may be required annually.
– Some states may require you to be at least 18 years old and pass a written exam on proper raptor care.
The application process can take several weeks or even months. Ensure you have proper owl enclosures constructed before applying. Some states will provide the necessary state and federal application forms online for convenience.
It’s recommended to check if your state has any raptor keeping association you can join. These groups can provide guidance on the permitting process and owning owls in your area.
Providing Proper Owl Housing
One key to obtaining an owl pet permit is demonstrating you can provide suitable housing. Owls are raptors adapted for hunting over large territories. Their living space in captivity requires careful planning.
Here are some general owl habitat guidelines:
– A minimum of 100 cubic feet of indoor space for small owls, 200+ cubic feet for large owls.
– Double door entrances preventing escapes.
– Perches at varying heights made of natural wood branches.
– Access to a water tub or pond for bathing and feather care.
– Outdoor aviary or flight cage of at least 6′ x 6′ x 6′ for small owls and 10′ x 20′ x 12′ for large owls.
– Protected shelter, hiding spaces, and roosting boxes in the aviary.
– Use of natural branches, logs, greenery and rocks to provide visual interest.
– Steel mesh fencing on the enclosure to prevent rodent entry.
– Double door system for the outdoor area to prevent owl escapes.
– Placement of the owl’s indoor and outdoor areas away from busy areas of your home.
– Non-toxic paints and cleaning agents used around enclosures.
Expect state wildlife officials to want to inspect your owl enclosures thoroughly before approving a pet permit. Being able to demonstrate ample space as well as enrichment is key. Never house a pet owl in a small cage or parrot cage that restricts mobility.
Owl Diet, Grooming and Vet Needs
Caring for a pet owl requires specialized knowledge of their diet, grooming and veterinary needs. Here are some key facts about properly maintaining owl health:
Diet:
– Whole prey items like mice, rats, quail, rabbits. Most owls will not eat dead meat scraps or pet food.
– Commercial owl diet supplements can add crucial vitamins and minerals.
– Access to clean water for hydration and bathing.
– Calcium and vitamin D3 supplements to prevent metabolic bone disease.
Grooming:
– Owls meticulously maintain their feathers but need help with tasks like nail trimming.
– Provide access to water sources for feathers baths. Mist perches daily.
– Trim flight and tail feathers if they become frayed or damaged. This requires training the owl.
– Check feet regularly for overgrown nails, cracks, swelling or debris. Overgrown beaks may also need periodic trimming.
Vet Care:
– New owls should get an initial exam, with annual checkups after that.
– De-worming and pest preventatives may be recommended.
– Watch for signs of illness like lethargy, weight loss, labored breathing or disorientation.
– Be prepared for injuries or sickness requiring emergency vet treatment. This can be expensive.
– Know where avian vets are located, as not all vets properly treat birds of prey like owls.
With proper facilities, diet, and healthcare, pet owls can live 10+ years in captivity in many cases. Their long lifespans mean they are a decades-long commitment requiring extensive learning and preparation.
Acquiring an Owl Legally
Once you determine owl ownership is legal in your area and have obtained permits, avoid unlawful sources for your pet. Illegally acquired owls can potentially be confiscated, and you may face heavy fines or prosecution.
Here are smart tips for finding an owl legally and ethically:
– Search for reputable, licensed owl breeders that provide health guarantees. Ask for referrals or reviews.
– Check lists of approved wildlife rehabilitators in your state, as some legally adopt out non-releasable owls.
– Join owl enthusiast groups to network and get breeder/adoption referrals. Attend exotic pet expos to meet providers.
– Ask your state’s wildlife agency for listed, licensed sources. Some have permit systems for matching rescued owls with qualified adopters.
– Be wary of online ads or providers selling owls illegally or without verification. Avoid purchasing any owl across state lines.
– Expect to pay $200-$600 for lower-demand owl species and $500-$2000+ for rarer/larger owls from breeders
