When we think of unusual pets, our minds spontaneously turn to goldfish in glass jars or adorable kittens basking in the sun. However, there are times and civilizations where pets were much more exotic and intriguing. Forget fishbowl and cute cats, these people had cheetahs lounging in their yards or hedgehogs nosing around at their feet.
These unusual pet choices are fascinating to learn about, as they reveal a lot about the beliefs and lifestyles of different ancient cultures.
1. Hedgehogs in Ancient Rome
Hedgehogs were popular pets in ancient Rome. These nocturnal insectivores were not only cute, they were also effective at controlling pests. By feasting on beetles and other critters that might have infested Roman homes, hedgehogs were seen as a form of natural pest control. Additionally, they were credited with the ability to bring good luck, making them a popular choice for Roman families.
2. Scarabs in Ancient Egypt
Although it may seem strange to us today, some ancient Egyptians kept jewel beetles as pets. These iridescent insects, with their shimmering blue and green shells, were considered symbols of rebirth and transformation. The Egyptians decorated their bodies with elaborate jewelry resembling these scarabs, and some even kept them alive in small ornate cages.
3. Parrots throughout Civilizations
Parrots have always been valued for their intelligence and their ability to imitate human speech. In ancient Greece and Rome, wealthy people kept parrots as status symbols. These colorful birds learned to greet guests, recite poems or even spread gossip! Parrots were also present in India and China, where they were considered messengers between the human and spiritual worlds. Owning a parrot in ancient times was not only about having a talking pet, it was also a way to show off one’s wealth and connect with the spiritual world.
4. Cheetahs and Leopards as Hunting Partners
Imagine having a cheetah as a pet! While this might seem like a recipe for disaster, some wealthy people in ancient Egypt and India owned cheetahs. These speedy felines were not cuddly companions; they were trained for hunting. The Egyptians believed that cheetahs were a gift from the god Ra, and they used them to hunt down prey like gazelles and antelopes. In India, cheetahs were even used by royalty to hunt alongside them on horseback. While keeping a big cat as a pet seems risky today, for these ancient societies it was a way to show power and status.
5. Squirrels and Monkeys in South America
For the people of ancient South America, particularly the Aztec civilization, monkeys and squirrels were popular choices as pets. These agile and playful creatures were seen as symbols of joy and intelligence. They were often looked after by children who taught them tricks and carried them on their shoulders.
Monkeys, in particular, were associated with gods and sometimes used in religious ceremonies. Owning a monkey or squirrel in ancient South America wasn’t just about having a fun pet; it was a way to connect with the divine and the natural world.
As we explore these unusual pet choices from different eras and civilizations, we discover a fascinating diversity of cultural perceptions and social practices. These exotic animals are not only companions, but also silent witnesses to our history and our interactions with the natural world around us.