I agree with the freedom of our current system, and some of what Jiro explained too.
It shouldn't be completely illegal to own special animals that aren't native to the area. I wouldn't want anyone to be able to get anything, but I do think there should be some checks and balances in order to own one.
Reason for this is because of a few:
- Less regulation and governmental control, but I'd like for there to be a limit or hurdle people have to pass in order to own exotic species. I don't like the idea of an average Joe the weed guy getting a pet crocodile and a Tiger, so I'd think it would be sensible to impose a limit as to who can actually own these pets.
- People with good understanding of animals, universities and research could and continue to also benefit.
- Keeps them out of the zoos. While zoos are not a bad thing, the animal has less freedom than it would under private ownership.
- More human knowledge of these animals you wouldn't get. I've read anecdotes online from people who owned dolphins, monkeys, and they've written and shared their behaviors on forums, blogs and such. It was nice information to know, and I don't think I would have learned such a thing from watching it in the wild (would have taken forever), at the zoo, or reading a book.. they aren't able to tell you everything..