Axolotls

Axolotls are fascinating amphibians that look like they are always smiling. They live in lakes near Mexico City. Unlike other amphibians, axolotls stay in the water their whole lives and keep their feathery gills. They are sometimes called Mexican walking fish, but they are not fish at all.

Super Regeneration

Axolotls have an incredible ability to regrow body parts. They can regrow legs, tails, parts of their heart, and even parts of their brain! Scientists study axolotls to learn how this works. No other animal can regenerate as many body parts as the axolotl.

Unique Appearance

Axolotls have wide heads, tiny eyes, and feathery gills that stick out from the sides of their heads. They come in many colors including brown, black, golden, and pink. The pink ones are the most popular as pets. They breathe through their gills and their skin.

Fun Facts

• Axolotls can regrow limbs, heart tissue, and even brain parts.
• They are critically endangered in the wild.
• Their name comes from the Aztec god of fire and lightning.

Did You Know?

Axolotls were sacred to the ancient Aztecs. Their name comes from Xolotl, the Aztec god of fire and lightning, who supposedly turned into an axolotl to avoid being sacrificed!