Axolotls (Ambystoma mexicanum) are a species of salamander made famous for their smiling faces. Adult axolotls range in length from 9 inches to 12 inches and can live for up to 15 years. These adorable aquatic creatures look harmless but have been deemed harmful in many states throughout the USA, such as California. But why are axolotls illegal in California and what happens if you are caught with one?
Why Are Axolotls Illegal In California?
There are a few reasons as to why are axolotls illegal in California, but the main concern is that they pose a serious threat to California’s ecosystem.
It is often thought that the reason why these creatures are banned in some states is due to their being endangered. While wild axolotls are on the endangered species list in their native habitat of Mexico, the ones in captivity are bred and not considered endangered.
What is on the endangered species list, however, is the California tiger salamander (Ambystoma californiense). When axolotls are released into the wild or escape captivity, they can wreak havoc on the state’s ecosystem.
Native salamanders, such as the California tiger salamander, cannot compete with the axolotls, which will result in these non-native animals taking over. Axolotls will also feast on other creatures that are an important part of California’s biodiversity.
Can You Keep Axolotls As Pets In California?
It is illegal to keep Axolotls as pets in California. You also cannot sell or import them in the state of California. This includes all life stages of the axolotls, including their eggs. Furthermore, you can find yourself in a world of legal trouble if you are caught releasing axolotls into the wild.
Unfortunately, some pet stores both inside and outside the state of California continue to sell these creatures, not informing the person purchasing them that it is, in fact, illegal to have axolotls as a pet in California.
Axolotls are not the only animal that it is illegal to keep as a pet in California. In fact, owning any salamander is illegal in the state, as are ferrets, hedgehogs, gerbils, and squirrels.
Are there any exceptions to owning an Axolotl in California?
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife does offer a restricted species permit for anyone who wants to possess, transport, import, or export animals that are on the restricted list.
These permits require a fee, which varies depending on the type of restricted species permit you to apply for, and will need to be approved by the State of California before you can have an axolotl.
Keep in mind, however, that is approved for this permit is rather difficult, since the permit is designed more for educational or scientific/research purposes, such as zoos than it is for personal ownership.
Can Axolotls be shipped to California?
It is rather common to find breeders and businesses outside of California selling axolotls online. Even though these businesses are not physically located in the state of California, any reputable person or business selling these salamanders will not ship them to any state where they are illegal.
It is a violation of federal law to ship to states where the animal is listed as illegal. If they are caught doing so, they could face expensive legal fees, as well as a loss of their licenses and permits required to run their business.
What other states have banned Axolotl ownership?
California isn’t the only state that has banned the ownership and sale of axolotls. They are also illegal in Washington D.C., New Jersey, and Maine.
Some Canadian provinces have also outlawed the sale or possession of axolotls. Hawaii and New Mexico haven’t banned them outright, but they do require a permit to own them.
Since the laws and regulations are always changing, it’s best to check with your state’s department of wildlife before purchasing an axolotl. They can provide you with the latest rules for owning a potentially harmful species.
While it may seem like a waste of time just to make sure you can have one of these salamanders as a pet, taking this extra step can help keep you on the right side of the law.
What Happens If You Get Caught With An Axolotls In California?
Getting caught with one of these animals in California is not good for you, nor is it good for the axolotl. If you’re caught with an axolotl in California, authorities will confiscate the animal and, more than likely, euthanize it.
As for the person caught in possession of the axolotl, you could face a hefty fine, though the exact amount will vary depending on several factors, as well as being charged for violating state law.
You could even potentially face jail time, though this punishment is typically reserved for people who sell and import a large number of restricted animals.
