Axolotls, also known as Mexican walking fish, are aquatic salamanders. They have become a popular pet in the United States in the past few years.
Which States Is It Legal To Own An Axolotl?
In three states and the District of Columbia, it is illegal to own an axolotl. California and Maine both make axolotls illegal because they are considered “detrimental animals” that pose a threat to native salamander species in the states. Similarly, New Jersey banned axolotls in order to prevent the chance of it breeding with the native Tiger Salamander.
Hawaii and New Mexico both allow axolotls to be owned as pets after obtaining the proper permits. All other states allow axolotls to be owned with no permits. It is important to remember, however, that cities and counties may have their own regulations regarding owning axolotls.
Do Axolotl Make Good Pets?
Axolotls make interesting pets. They are salamanders that spend most of their time in the water. They can live up to 15 years, with an average lifespan of about 10 years. It is important to understand the needs of axolotls before bringing one home.
Axolotls need a tank of at least 29 gallons per axolotl. However, the best thing for the axolotl is to have the largest tank there is space for. Keeping the water level a few inches below the top of the tank will help to stop the axolotl from jumping out of the tank. Water should be kept at 60-68 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent stress or slow metabolism. Tanks should also have plants and decorations in the tank to keep the axolotl comfortable and entertained.
Axolotls are fairly easy to feed. Earthworms and nightcrawlers provide proper nutrition for the axolotl. Owners can also give axolotl pellets and treats like frozen bloodworms.
Because axolotls have sensitive eyes, they need to be in a low-light environment. They spend much of their time sitting around their tank or walking along its bottom. They can’t be handled or removed from the water, which makes them less ideal than some more interactive pets.
Breeding Axolotls
For those looking to breed pet axolotls, it is paramount to know the laws surrounding your breeding and selling business. For example, in most states, it can easily be considered a "hobby" rather than a business if it is done locally and sales are extremely uncommon. However, if you are looking at turning a profit and using the money as one of the sources for your livelihood or investment, income must be reported to the IRS. A proper business needs to be federally registered to be regulated and avoid fines and charges of tax evasion or illegal trading. Some considerations for potential axolotl breeders prior to setting up a business are:
- Certain states, such as Pennsylvania, require more than just a registered business to buy and sell animals. In addition to your tax number, you will need a breeder permit and a sales permit.
- Federal income tax will need to be collected, so you will need a sales tax number. Prior to doing this, research the rules and regulations of your state and county.
- The specific business you will be setting up is an "amphibian selling business". Make sure you are looking up the proper regulations in regards to this keyword as it will make a difference in case of an audit or granting of a permit.
FAQs
In the United States, axolotls are illegal to own in California, Maine, New Jersey, and D.C., while a permit is required in New Mexico and Hawaii. In Canada, it is illegal to own axolotls in New Brunswick, British Columbia, Prince Edward Island, while a permit is required in Nova Scotia.
Are axolotls illegal in Florida? ›
Shipping & DOA Policy. Axolotls are legal in most places in the U.S. except for California, Maine, New Jersey, Washington, and D.C. In New Mexico, they are legal to own, but illegal to import from other states.
Can I get an axolotl in NJ? ›
Interestingly enough, both Axolotls and all varieties Tiger Salamanders are illegal to buy and own in the states of New Jersey and New York. Unlike cobras, rattlesnakes, Gila Monsters and Alligators, these salamanders are not dangerous in the least bit to humans.
Are axolotls legal in Texas? ›
As far as I know they're only illegal in California and New Jersey. You need to have a permit for New Mexico and Hawaii. So you should be perfectly fine.
How many axolotls are left? ›
According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, there are fewer than 100 adult axolotls left in the wild. The species is considered critically endangered. An axolotl swims around a tank at the Axolotl Museum and Amphibians Conservation Centre in Mexico City in February.
Can axolotls be shipped? ›
Albinos may have either red or golden eyes. Axolotls are shipped as juveniles and are usually 5–8 cm in length. Axolotls are shipped in water in a bag. They can live in their shipping container no longer than one day due to build up of wastes and depletion of oxygen.
Why is it illegal to own axolotls? ›
Axolotls (and all other mole salamander species, by the way) have been made illegal in California due to concern over the potential threat an axolotl might pose to native wildlife species if it were to be released.
Why can't you pet axolotls? ›
Axolotl Behavior and Temperament
In fact, most of their body is made of cartilage rather than bone. That means they should not be handled unless absolutely necessary. And if you do have to move them out of their tank, do so with a fine mesh net that won't entangle any of their body parts.
Does an axolotl bite? ›
Axolotls are capable of biting food items and giving any neighboring tank fellows a nip if they get too close. There is also some suggestion they can remove limbs and indulge in a spot of cannibalism when growing up.
Can you own an axolotl in Pennsylvania? ›
Many states allow them, but not Pennsylvania, California, or Alaska. A big thank you to one of our readers (K Heller) for kindly pointing out the recent change in legislation regarding axolotl ownership in Virginia. We have updated this article accordingly. A permit is required to own an axolotl in New Mexico.
Axolotls make great pets due to their unique appearance, fascinating biology, low maintenance requirements, and docile nature. However, it is essential to purchase from reputable breeders, such as Axolotl Planet or Fantaxies, who track lineages and ensure the health and well-being of their axolotls.
Are axolotls legal in Oregon? ›
Mudpuppies aren't legal in Oregon, however the axolotl is.
Can you own axolotls in California? ›
In three states and the District of Columbia, it is illegal to own an axolotl. California and Maine both make axolotls illegal because they are considered “detrimental animals” that pose a threat to native salamander species in the states.
Are axolotls legal in BC? ›
Other exotic animals like axolotls and tree frogs are not considered CAS, but are designated as wildlife under the B.C. Wildlife Act. Ownership of these animals is restricted, meaning they cannot be kept, sold, bred, trafficked or transported without a permit.
Are axolotls legal in Ohio? ›
Are they legal in Ohio? They are legal!
What states do axolotls live in? ›
Where Do Axolotls Live? Axolotls are only found in two freshwater lakes in Mexico: Lake Xochimilco and Lake Chalco. Unfortunately, due to human encroachment, they are critically endangered.
Is it OK to touch axolotl? ›
While axolotls are relatively hardy to slight fluctuations in their environment, they also have delicate, soft bodies with permeable skin. In fact, most of their body is made of cartilage rather than bone. That means they should not be handled unless absolutely necessary.
Where can axolotls be found in America? ›
The axolotl is native only to Lake Xochimilco in the Valley of Mexico, as well as the canals and waterways of Mexico City. Because they're neotenic, their habitat reflects this: a high-altitude body of water. This is unique to axolotls, with other salamanders having a much wider distribution.
