These 9 Animals Are Illegal To Barbecue In NJ

NEW JERSEY — It's barbecue season in New Jersey, and while most of us flock to a juicy steak, chicken wings or a rack of ribs to christen the grill for 2025, there are bound to be chefs who take a more unconventional or "exotic" approach when creating their summer menus.

In New Jersey, there are several animals you are legally not allowed to kill and consume. In fact, doing so could result in fines, arrest and even federal charges.

But do you know which animals are on the list?

While it likely never occurred to you to cook up one of the following animals, knowledge is power, friends, and so is staying out of jail.

Horses

In 2012, former Gov. Chris Christie signed a law making it illegal to slaughter a horse for human consumption. Additionally, it makes the knowing sale or barter of horseflesh for human consumption an offense. Violation comes with a fine of at least $100 and a prison sentence of at least 30 days.

Dogs

New Jersey is one of only seven states that have explicitly banned the slaughter of dogs for consumption, according to World Population Review; however, the Dog and Cat Meat Trade Prohibition Act of 2018, signed into law by the 2018 Farm Bill, prohibits the slaughter of dogs and cats for human consumption at a federal level. Violating the federal law could end in a $5,000 fine.

Cats

Eating cats is also prohibited by the Dog and Cat Meat Trade Prohibition Act.

Owls

Owls are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which makes it illegal to harm, capture, or consume them in New Jersey or anywhere else in the United States. A misdemeanor violation in punishable by a fine up to $50,000 and 6 months in jail.

Robins

Robins are also protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

Timber Rattlesnake

The timber rattlesnake is among the state’s most endangered species, which means it is illegal to kill them. Fines can range from $100 to $500 per offense.

Osprey

While osprey populations have rebounded in New Jersey, it remains illegal to kill them under both the state's Endangered and Nongame Species Conservation Act and the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act. State fines range from $5,000 to $50,000.

Bald Eagles

Bald eagles are also protected under the state's Endangered and Nongame Species Conservation Actand the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Bald eagle nests and roosting areas are also provided special protection by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. Violating federal law could end in a $100,000 fine and a year in prison.

Sea Turtle

Under the Endangered Species Act, it is illegal to harm, kill, or eat sea turtles or other endangered animals found in U.S. waters due to their vulnerable populations and crucial role in marine ecosystems. Violators may be assessed a civil penalty of up to $25,000 for each violation.