is it even legal to have this as a pet?
http://datcp.wi.gov/Animals/Animal_Movement/Household_Pets/index.aspxImporting Exotic Pets
An "exotic pet" is any companion animal other than a dog, domestic housecat, ferret, pet bird, rabbit, or domestic rodent (gerbil, guinea pig, hamster, or domestic mouse or rat).
Required:
Certificate of veterinary inspection (CVI) with physical destination address
Official individual ID
Import permit number
Not required:
Testing or vaccinations for most exotic pet species, such as monkeys, sugar gliders, hedgehogs, reptiles, amphibians, etc.
Please Note: Some animal species that have been kept as pets may not be imported into Wisconsin because they are known carriers of highly contagious diseases. They are North American prairie dogs and the following African-origin species: tree squirrels, rope squirrels, dormice,
Gambian giant pouched rats, brush-tailed porcupines, and striped mice.
For all other species, it is not determined on the state level if it is legal to own a particular animal species. WDATCP strongly encourages you to contact your local government officials (county, township, and municipality) to determine their regulations on animal ownership.
In addition, some animals may need permits from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Please visit the WDNR website for more information.
To get an import permit number:
Determine if you need a permit from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
Download or print the general import permit application
Complete the permit application form and send it, along with a copy of the certificate of veterinary/health certificate, to WDATCP in one of two ways
Fax to 608-224-4871 OR
Scan and email both forms to DATCPAnimalImports@Wisconsin.gov
When the application is complete, a permit number will be faxed or emailed back to you. Be sure to write the permit number on the CVI.
I'm kind of pissed to find out I can't buy a Gambian Giant Pouched Rat if I like, happen to stumble upon the right roadside zoo.
and yes, I have applied for the permit, haven't gotten anything official yet.