A global assessment of wild mammals kept as pets

Abstract

The growing trend of keeping wild vertebrates as pets is an emerging conservation concern and a major driver of wildlife trade, biodiversity loss, and biological invasions worldwide. In this study, we recorded over 702 mammal species being kept as pets, including 300 threatened taxa. We detected strong phylogenetic clustering, indicating that closely related species—particularly within the orders Primates, Carnivora, and Rodentia—are disproportionately represented amongst mammals kept as pet. Species with larger body mass and broader geographic ranges were significantly more likely to be kept as pets. Additionally other traits, such as evolutionary distinctiveness, low fecundity and threat status, showed positive associations in more specific models. At least 65 countries were represented in our dataset, which likely reflects research availability rather than the actual global extent of pet-keeping practices. This research supports efforts to inform policy, strengthen enforcement, and raise public awareness about the conservation risks associated with the ownership of wild pets.