The Big Apple and the Bigger Bird: Can You Own an Ostrich in New York?
Ah, New York City. The city that never sleeps, the land of towering skyscrapers and steaming hot dog stands. But what about, you know, exotic pets? Like, say, an ostrich?
Ostriches: Not Quite Park Avenue Penthouse Material
Let's face it, folks, an ostrich in your tiny Brooklyn apartment just isn't practical. Imagine trying to explain that to your downstairs neighbor when the ceiling starts sounding like a particularly enthusiastic drum solo. Ostrich eggs the size of watermelons? Not exactly ideal for your shoebox-sized kitchen.
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| Can You Own An Ostrich In New York |
The Law Lays Down the Law
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But hey, maybe you're living the dream out in the suburbs with a sprawling backyard. In that case, you might be wondering: is an ostrich the eccentric new lawnmower you've always craved? Well, buckle up buttercup, because the law has something to say about that.
New York State vs. New York City: A Tale of Two Ostrich Policies
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Here's the thing: New York State itself doesn't explicitly outlaw ostriches. It's kind of like that weird shirt you bought on vacation - not technically illegal, but definitely raising some eyebrows. New York City, on the other hand, has a more definitive stance. They've got a whole list of "no-go" exotic pets, and ostriches are perched right at the top (alongside eagles, for some reason - guess they're worried about a competition for the city mascot?).
So, the answer is: unless you're planning on moving your ostrich-owning dreams upstate, forget about it.
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But Wait! There's More! (Except Ostriches)
Now, before you drown your sorrows in a giant New York pretzel, here's a little ray of sunshine: there are some surprisingly interesting animals you can own in New York (outside the city limits, of course). We're talking fennec foxes, coatimundis (look it up, it's basically a raccoon with a serious case of the rumpled furs), even kangaroos!
FAQ: Your Ostrich-Ownership Dreams Answered (Sort Of)
- How to convince my landlord to let me keep an ostrich? - This one's a tough one. Maybe try a really charming bribery strategy involving fresh-baked cookies? (Spoiler alert: it won't work).
- How big of a backyard do I need for an ostrich? - Big enough that you can comfortably outrun a very large, very fast bird if things go south.
- How much does it cost to own an ostrich? - Enough to buy a lifetime supply of those aforementioned giant pretzels.
- What do ostriches eat? - Mostly plants, but they're not above the occasional rogue shoe or small child's toy (don't say we didn't warn you).
- Are there any legal alternatives to owning an ostrich in New York? - Yes! There's a whole world of fascinating, legal exotic pets out there. Just do your research and make sure you can provide them with a proper home.
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