Most states have specific laws governing the possession of dangerous wild animals, and the liability of landowners for injuries caused by wild animals on their property. Ferae naturae is a common law doctrine (created by judges in court opinions) meaning "animals of a wild nature or disposition," and traces its origins back to the Roman empire. Under the doctrine of ferae naturae, wild animals are presumed to be owned by no one specifically, but by the people generally.

In many states the rule of law has developed that a landowner cannot be held liable for the acts of indigenous wild animals occurring on his or her property unless the landowner has actually reduced the wild animals to possession or control, or introduced a non-indigenous animal into the area.

In Virginia, the possession of dangerous wild animals is regulated by state statutes. The Virginia Administrative Code (VAC) 4VAC15-30-10 outlines the list of predatory or undesirable species, which includes various wild animals that are illegal to possess without a permit. This list is extensive and includes many species of mammals, birds, fish, and reptiles. Additionally, Virginia law requires a permit for the possession of exotic animals, which are defined as any species not native to Virginia. The liability of landowners for injuries caused by wild animals on their property in Virginia generally follows the common law doctrine of ferae naturae. Under this doctrine, a landowner is not typically held liable for injuries caused by wild, indigenous animals on their property unless the landowner has either taken possession or control of the animal or introduced a non-native species that causes harm. This principle is based on the idea that wild animals are unowned and that landowners cannot foresee or prevent their actions. However, if a landowner's actions, such as maintaining artificial conditions that attract wild animals, lead to an injury, they may be held liable under certain circumstances.