In addition to axolotls, there have already been countless cases when ancient pets have been released and established in local ecosystems, leading to unforeseen damage. Look no further than the state of Florida, where a new law was passed earlier this year to ban the possession of several reptile species that were considered high risk to local ecosystems. This ban was not directed against obscure animals, but against reptiles that were usually kept as pets, such as tegus, green iguanas and various species of pythons. For several years, Florida`s ecosystems have been invaded by many released pets, which have overtaken local animals to the point that some species are threatened with extinction. In addition, at least ten non-native invasive fish species have been introduced into Lake Xochimilco. These fish compete with axolotls for food and survival. A permit is required to own an axolotl in New Mexico. The approval serves as proof that the axolotl was purchased from an authorized dealer, that its origin is known and that it is in legal possession. Fortunately, axolotls are not considered dangerous for humans. Axolotls are illegal in some parts of Canada, not because they are endangered species, but because they are pests that pose a serious threat to native wildlife. Axolotls are illegal in California, Maine, New Jersey, Virginia and Washington. Therefore, axolotls are not made illegal due to a potential threat to human life. As a result, axolotls are now classified as an endangered species in the wild by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN).
Another place where it is illegal to own and keep an axolotl as a pet is the state of Maine. The main reason for this is similar to California`s reasoning – that the law to protect wildlife, the public and natural resources is in place. Some may assume that these bans are due to the fact that wild axolotls are threatened with extinction, but this is not the case. While wild populations of axolotls are in sharp decline and are likely to be threatened with extinction soon, axolotls kept by pets have been bred entirely in captivity for generations and are the descendants of a number of small colonies that cover a few different countries. You can keep axolotls with a permit in New Mexico and Hawaii. In addition, some provinces in Canada prohibit the possession of axolotls such as New Brunswick, British Columbia and Prince Edward Island. In Nova Scotia, a permit is required to retain axolotls. Axolotls are native to Mexico and are considered an endangered species due to habitat loss, declining water quality and urbanization.
Therefore, they should never be taken out of the wild for the animal trade. The vast majority of axolotls are descended from captive-bred animals that have been used for scientific research. In addition, axolotls rarely undergo metamorphosis into a terrestrial form. The reasons for this are poorly understood, although it may have to do with hormones or the properties of water. Metamorphosis can be extremely stressful for an axolotl and significantly shorten its lifespan. If you notice abnormal changes in your pet`s body, such as when it gets fat, have it examined as soon as possible by a veterinarian who specializes in exotic animals. You only ship to legal U.S. states with proof of approval. So make sure you have your permits ready! While in Manitoba, axolotls can only be illegally kept in Canada`s seventh largest city, Winnipeg, the rest of the province allows axolotls as exotic pets. Axolotls are allowed to be kept illegally as pets in different parts of the world. So, if you want to keep one, first check the laws of your country or state and then decide! * The importation and possession of wolf-dog hybrids and large carnivores is illegal in Michigan, with special exceptions. If you are considering importing a wolf-dog hybrid or large carnivore, please call MDARD at 800-292-3939 for more information.
However, these iucn or CITES classifications of axolotls are generally not the reason why their possession is prohibited in some states.