So You Want a Pet Peter Pan? The Scoop on Keeping Flying Squirrels in Washington
Ever looked out your window at night and seen a shadow with fuzzy wings flitting between the trees? That, my friend, was probably a northern flying squirrel, and let's be honest, they are adorable. But before you channel your inner Disney princess and dream of woodland tea parties, there's the question of legality: Can you cuddle a flying squirrel in Washington?
The answer, like many things in life, is a bit more nuanced than a simple yes or no. Buckle up, animal enthusiast, because we're diving into the world of Washington's flying squirrel regulations!
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| Can You Own A Flying Squirrel In Washington |
Washington Says "Maybe Later" to Fido McFly
Here's the truth: Northern flying squirrels are considered protected wildlife in Washington. This means owning one as a pet is a big no-no. Think about it: these little guys are built for soaring through the forest canopy, not napping in a shoebox. They deserve the freedom to, well, fly!
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There are some exceptions, of course. Wildlife rehabilitators and organizations with a specific purpose (like education or research) might be able to obtain a permit. But for the average citizen with squirrel-sized dreams, it's a non-starter.
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But Wait, There's More! (Because the Internet Never Lets You Stop Scrolling)
Now, before you resign yourself to a life devoid of fluffy friends, here's the good news: Washington has plenty of awesome, legal pets to choose from! Consider a:
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- Talkative parrot (though be prepared for sassy comebacks!)
- Loyal dog (walks in the park are way easier than chasing flying squirrels)
- Curious cat (just make sure your furniture is squirrel-proof)
Look, we get the appeal of the flying squirrel. They're undeniably cute. But trust us, there's a reason they haven't taken over the internet as the next big pet trend. They're wild animals with specific needs, and a shoebox just isn't going to cut it.
Flying Squirrel FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions, Because We Know You're Curious)
- How to Spot a Flying Squirrel in Washington? Look for them at night gliding between trees. They're most active around dusk and dawn.
- How to Resist the Urge to Cuddle a Wild Flying Squirrel? Focus on the fact that they carry diseases and can bite (cuteness factor = 0).
- How to Learn More About Washington's Wildlife Laws? The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website is your friend! https://wdfw.wa.gov/
- How to Find a Reputable Pet Breeder in Washington? The Washington State Department of Agriculture can help! https://agr.wa.gov/
- How to Get Your Daily Dose of Flying Squirrel Cuteness? Hit up some adorable YouTube videos! Just remember, watching is way better than owning.
So there you have it! While you might not be able to own a flying squirrel in Washington, there's a whole world of legal and wonderful pets waiting to be your best friend. Just remember, responsible pet ownership is key!
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