Fun Facts About Axolotls + Common Questions

Axolotls are some of the most unusual and lovable creatures in the animal kingdom. Native only to the lakes and canals of Mexico City, they’ve captured the hearts of scientists, pet lovers, and students around the world. Below are some fascinating fun facts about axolotls—including answers to some of the most common questions.

How Fast Can an Axolotl Walk?

Axolotls are slow movers. On average, they walk at about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) per second. Their tiny legs aren’t made for speed—they use them to gently stroll along the bottom of lakes or tanks. While they can swim quickly in short bursts if frightened, they’re generally relaxed, deliberate walkers.

How Many Axolotls Are Left?

In the wild, axolotls are critically endangered. Scientists estimate there may be fewer than 1,000 left in their native habitat—the Xochimilco canals in Mexico City. Their decline is due to habitat loss, pollution, and the introduction of invasive species like tilapia. Fortunately, axolotls are widely bred in captivity for research, pets, and conservation.

Why Are Axolotls Pink?

Not all axolotls are pink—but the ones you see in aquariums or online often are. These pink axolotls are leucistic, a genetic condition that gives them pale skin and visible blood vessels, making them appear pink. Their bright red gills add to the colorful look. In the wild, axolotls are typically dark brown or black to help them blend into muddy water.

More Fun Facts About Axolotls

1. They Can Regrow Almost Anything

Axolotls are famous for their regenerative abilities. They can regrow lost limbs, tails, parts of their heart, spinal cord, and even parts of their brain—without scarring. Scientists study axolotls to better understand regeneration in humans.

2. They Never Outgrow Their Baby Stage

Unlike most amphibians, axolotls are neotenic—they keep their larval features (like gills and a finned tail) for life. While most salamanders eventually grow lungs and live on land, axolotls stay in water their entire lives and breathe through both gills and lungs.

3. They Have the “Smiling” Look

Axolotls always appear to be smiling due to the shape of their mouth and face. This permanent grin makes them especially popular among kids and animal lovers.

4. They’re Named After an Aztec God

The name “axolotl” comes from Nahuatl, the language of the Aztecs. It roughly translates to “water monster” or “water dog,” and is connected to the god Xolotl, who was said to have transformed into an axolotl to escape death.

5. They Come in Many Colors

Beyond pink, axolotls can be wild-type (dark brown/black), golden, white albino, copper, and even melanoid (solid black). Some rare axolotls bred in captivity have glowing genes added (GFP axolotls) and appear fluorescent under UV light!

6. They Don’t Have Eyelids

Axolotls can’t blink because they don’t have eyelids. Instead, they rely on the water around them to keep their eyes clean and moist.

7. They Breathe Four Ways

Axolotls are breathing champions! They can breathe through:

• Gills

• Lungs

• Their skin

• The membranes in their mouth and throat

8. They’re Silent But Sensitive

Axolotls don’t make sounds like frogs or toads. They’re completely silent but have excellent hearing and can detect vibrations in the water.

Why Do People Love Axolotls?

Besides their incredible biology, axolotls are easy to care for in aquariums, don’t require land space, and are endlessly entertaining to watch. Their curious nature and cartoonish grin make them favorites among teachers, students, and animal lovers alike.

Axolotls are more than just cute—they’re living scientific wonders. Whether you’re learning about them for school, considering one as a pet, or just love weird animal facts, there’s always something new to discover about these magical little salamanders.