In recent weeks news of 10 year old, Evie Hill’s extraordinary discovery of a Mexican axolotl under a bridge in River Ogmore in Bridgend, Wales, has captured the attention of major media outlets and fascinated experts as well as the nature loving girl’s classmates.
It is the first documented discovery of an axolotl in the wild in the UK with only 50 to 1,000, external left globally, according to experts. Chris Newman, director of the National Centre for Reptile Welfare, said Evie had “probably saved the axolotl’s life”. This is the first time one has been documented in the UK, and it would not have lived very long if Evie hadn’t seen it,” he said. “Predatory animals would have had it for lunch, and it already had bite marks on its back.”
Evie’s mother Melanie, said she was sceptical when Evie first told her she had found the amphibian. “I thought she’d seen a newt or something,” she said. “Evie’s always finding things like this — not axolotls — but newts and bugs. Speaking to the BBC about finding the nine-inch-long animal, Evie said: “I went down to the bank and there was this green mat, I lifted it up and there was an axolotl there.” The family cut their holiday short to take the axolotl back to their home in Leicester, and said they spent hours researching how to keep it safe. Evie has since named her surprise discovery Axolotl, ‘Dippy’.
Her amazing find has highlighted the importance of preserving biodiversity and opened up conversations about responsible pet ownership and the impact of exotic species when introduced into non-native environments.
What are Axolotls?
An axolotl, often referred to as the “Mexican walking fish,” is a fascinating and unique amphibian native to the lakes underlying Mexico City, particularly Lake Xochimilco. Unlike most amphibians, axolotls retain their larval features throughout their entire lives, a trait known as neoteny. This means they live underwater with their gills intact, appearing almost like a perpetually young salamander, complete with feathery external gills protruding from the sides of their heads.
Axolotls are remarkable for their incredible regenerative abilities; they can regrow entire limbs, portions of their heart, and even parts of their brain without scarring. Due to habitat loss and environmental changes, axolotls are critically endangered in the wild, but their curious appearance and fascinating biology have made them popular subjects in scientific research and unique pets among exotic animal enthusiasts.
Their mysterious “smiling” faces continue to captivate people worldwide, highlighting the incredible diversity of life in aquatic ecosystems.
Why have Axolotls become so popular?
Axolotls as pets have seen a surge in popularity in recent years after they were introduced to video games such as Minecraft and Roblox.
The RSPCA said it had seen a surge in searches to buy axolotls online after the amphibians were introduced into the game Minecraft in June 2021, jumping from around 11,000 per month to 50,000 per month. Dr Ros Clubb, from the charity, previously warned they are not easy to look after and should never be “impulse bought” as pets.
Social media platforms and viral videos showcasing these quirky amphibians have further fueled their popularity, creating a vibrant online community where youngsters share care tips, photos, and axolotl-themed content.
Call to Retailers to Stock the Amphibian!
#WhyStockIt? Ensure parents can still inspire appreciation for the wonders of nature in their little ones without the need of a real amphibian pet with the fantastic range of Axolotl themed toys at Baby Brands Direct instead. Current B2B options include:
- The VTech Rainbow Lights Axolotl is a must have, suitable from 3months to 36months. More than brightening a child’s day, the cuddly and charming companion encourages sensory and tactile development while delighting with 15 tunes and 3 sing-along songs. Light up Axolotl’s heart button to watch it glow in time with the melodies and songs! By pressing the three gentle buttons on Axolotl’s belly, children can enjoy engaging phrases, nature sounds and lively music. It’s tail enhances visual stimulation through its vivid, colourful gradient. In addition, Axolotl holds a hanging clear star and a soft, crinkly rainbow and has a C-ring to attach securely to a stroller or baby carrier for on the go fun.
- The Lamaze Alise Axolotl in bright colours and a soft body with multiple textures and ribbons for baby to explore. This axolotl toy makes interesting crinkle sounds that encourage grasping and when shaken makes a gentle chiming sound. Perfect for introducing early cause and effect learning. The axolotl also holds a textured star that is perfect for chewing – ideal for babies as they explore the world with their mouth as well as their hands. In addition, it too has an inbuilt multi-purpose clip that is designed to attach easily to strollers or changing bags to be with baby all the time.
- VTech Rainbow Colours Musical Axolotl Teether in both blue and pink! Boasting vibrant music and colour, and crafted with soft, textured silicone gills, this charming teether provides perfect tactile stimulation for little hands. The axolotl serves as an engaging way to teach colours and interesting facts, turning early learning into a fun and interactive experience. Various textures promote sensory development and tactile curiosity. It also has an interactive, colour-changing heart button that lights up with each press, encouraging playful engagement. It features 3 sing-along songs and 10 lively tunes to keep babies entertained.
Shop the gorgeous plush range of Axolotl toys at Baby Brands Direct today – one of the UK’s most trusted wholesaler suppliers. Log in here or register for an account here.