Nutria are not legal pets in most U.S. states because they are classified as invasive species. Laws restrict ownership to prevent ecological damage, with very few exceptions for permits or research.
Nutria may look like oversized beavers or muskrats, but these semi-aquatic rodents are far from typical pets. Originally brought from South America for fur farming, they have since become one of the most destructive invasive species in the United States.
Because of the environmental damage they cause, most states classify nutria as illegal to own. This guide explains their status as pets, the laws that restrict them, and why they are not suitable companions for households.
What Are Nutria?
Nutria, also known as coypu, are large rodents native to South America that were introduced to North America in the early 20th century. They can grow up to 20 pounds, with long round tails, webbed hind feet, and distinctive orange teeth.
While they were once valued for their fur, nutria quickly spread beyond farms and became notorious for damaging wetlands. Their constant feeding and burrowing habits make them one of the most ecologically destructive invasive species in the U.S.
Are Nutria Legal Pets in the U.S.?
In most states, nutria are classified as invasive wildlife, which makes it illegal to keep them as pets. Laws focus on preventing further spread, since escaped or released nutria can cause severe damage to wetlands and native ecosystems.
There are very limited exceptions where permits may be granted for research or wildlife management purposes. For the average person, however, keeping a nutria as a pet is against the law and can lead to fines or other legal consequences.
State Regulations and Restrictions
Many states, including California, Oregon, and Louisiana, have outright bans on owning nutria due to the extensive damage they cause to wetlands and agriculture. These states consider nutria a major ecological threat, so laws are designed to stop their spread entirely.
In rare cases, permits may be issued for scientific research or government-led wildlife control programs. However, these exceptions are tightly regulated, and ordinary residents have no legal pathway to keep nutria as household pets.
Why Nutria Make Poor Pets?
Even if nutria were legal to own, their needs make them unsuitable for households. They can grow large, require constant access to water, and have strong teeth that chew through wood, plastic, and even wiring.
Beyond property damage, nutria can be aggressive when stressed and carry diseases that may spread to humans and pets. Their destructive habits and health risks make them unsafe and impractical as domestic companions.
Environmental Concerns with Nutria
Nutria are especially destructive because of their feeding habits. They consume massive amounts of wetland plants, often eating roots and stems completely, which leaves soil bare and highly vulnerable to erosion.
This destruction leads to the collapse of wetland ecosystems, reducing biodiversity and harming native wildlife. Allowing nutria to spread further, through ownership or escape, only worsens the ecological damage already seen across multiple states.
Alternatives to Keeping Nutria as Pets
For those interested in rodents or small mammals, there are plenty of safe and legal options. Guinea pigs, rabbits, and even certain exotic pets like chinchillas can provide companionship without the ecological risks nutria pose.
These animals are easier to care for, require far less space, and won’t cause large-scale property or environmental damage. Choosing legal pets ensures a safer home environment and avoids contributing to invasive species problems.
Why Nutria Require Professional Control?
Nutria may appear interesting or unique, but they are not legal pets in most of the United States. Their invasive status, destructive behavior, and potential health risks make them unsuitable for homes and tightly regulated under state and federal law.
For anyone who encounters nutria on their property, removal should be left to licensed professionals. Contacting experts like AAAC Wildlife Removal ensures these rodents are handled safely while protecting the environment from further harm.
Call AAAC Wildlife Removal for Nutria Control!
If nutria are causing damage on your property, don’t try to handle them on your own. AAAC Wildlife Removal provides safe, humane solutions that follow local laws and protect your land from further destruction.
Our team specializes in managing invasive species like nutria, using proven methods to remove them and prevent future problems.
