If you’re considering adopting an axolotl as a pet, then you might be wondering if axolotls are illegal in your state. Indeed, axolotls are generally classified as exotic pets and are also critically endangered species in the wild.
As a result, specific laws and regulations may apply to them. These rules may aim to protect the species itself, the people who interact with them, or indeed local ecosystems. Whether axolotls are legal or illegal will vary from state to state. So, can you own an axolotl in your state?
Please note:
The information in this article may be incorrect, is not legal advice, and should not be considered as such. I am a simple axolotl lover, not a legal expert…The following article is based on my personal research and should be used for educational, entertainment, and informational purposes only.
Table of Contents
- Are Axolotls Illegal In The United States of America?
- Why Are Axolotls Illegal In Certain States?
- Legality Of Axolotls In All 50 States
Are Axolotls Illegal In The United States of America?
Based on my research, axolotls are not illegal in the United States at a federal level. In other words, there is no blanket ban on the ownership of axolotls in the United States.
Instead, each state has its own set of laws and regulations governing the ownership of exotic pets in general, and axolotls in particular.
Why Are Axolotls Illegal In Certain States?
Before we take a look at axolotl legality in all 50 states – and determine where are axolotls illegal – let’s look at some of the factors which may have contributed to the legal determination of their status.
Critically Endangered Species
Wild axolotls are in trouble – a lot of trouble!
Indeed, their numbers have been dwindling in their natural habitat and the species is on the brink of extinction.
IUCN Classification Of Axolotls
As a result, axolotls are now listed as critically endangered species in the wild by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN).
CITES Classification Of Axolotls
They are also listed under Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).
CITES is an international agreement between governments that aims to ensure that the survival of certain species of wild animals and plants is not threatened by international trade thereof.
As a result, the international trade of axolotls captured in the wild is heavily regulated and monitored.
However, these classifications of axolotls by the IUCN or CITES are generally not why their ownership is banned in certain states.
Indeed, the vast majority of axolotls for sale as pets have been bred in captivity and are not imported animals.
As a matter of fact, axolotls have been bred for scientific research or for the pet trade for many decades. The pet axolotls at your local pet shop are very unlikely to have been caught in the wild. Therefore, buying a pet axolotl does not put direct pressure on wild axolotl populations.
The reason why axolotls are banned in certain states is first and foremost due to their potential to become an invasive species.
Invasive species
What Is An Invasive Species?
An invasive species is a species that is not native to the ecosystem under consideration and whose introduction is likely to be detrimental to the local environment (native fauna and flora) or indeed to human health.
Invasive species can be fauna (i.e. animals) or flora (plants, including fungi – although some would argue that fungi are a separate kingdom).
How Are Invasive Species Introduced?
Invasive species can be introduced to areas in a number of different ways, some natural and others man-made. In fact, the majority of invasive species introductions are inadvertently caused by humans (via food and cargo importation; release of ship ballast water or hull contamination; escape of pet animals into the wild…).
If you’re interested in learning more about invasive species, I’d recommend visiting the National Invasive Species Information Centre of the U.S. Department Of Agriculture.
Are Axolotls An Invasive Species?
Axolotls, originally native to Mexico, are not a native salamander species in the USA.
Although there are many more examples of invasive species being introduced into the native habitat of wild axolotls (such as tilapia fish for example) than there are examples of axolotls becoming an invasive species in other habitats, the rule of thumb is to err on the side of caution.
Therefore, certain states have determined that the risk of axolotls becoming an invasive species is sufficient to warrant a ban.
Risk Hybridization With Other Ambystoma Species
For example, some scientists and biologists fear that axolotls (Ambystoma Mexicanum) may mate with indigenous US Ambystoma salamander species, such as eastern tiger salamanders (Ambystoma Tigrinum) for example.
The result would be a hybridization where both species meet to form a new species or at least a new variety of salamander which could eventually lead to the disappearance of either original species in the local habitat.
Danger To Humans
Thankfully, axolotls are not considered dangerous to humans.
On occasion, they may bite – but it’s more of a nibble than a bite and their intentions are not nefarious.
Therefore, axolotls are not made illegal due to the potential threat they pose to human life.
Legality Of Axolotls In All 50 States
Alabama
Are axolotls illegal in Alabama?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Alabama.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Alabama.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Alabama?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Alabama.
Alaska
Are axolotls illegal in Alaska?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Alaska.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Alaska.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Alaska?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Alaska.
Arizona
Are axolotls illegal in Arizona?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Arizona.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Arizona.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Arizona?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Arizona.
Arkansas
Are axolotls illegal in Arkansas?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Arkansas.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Arkansas.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Arkansas?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Arkansas.
California
Are axolotls illegal in California?
Yes, axolotls are illegal in California.
In other words, axolotls are not legal in California.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in California?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in California because axolotl ownership is prohibited.
Why Are Axolotls Illegal In California
In the state of California, it is illegal to own an axolotl as a pet. It is impossible to even get a permit to keep one of these exotic animals in this state. Owning a pet axolotl could be punishable by law.
But, why is that exactly?
The state of California views axolotls as ‘detrimental animals’. This means that it is believed they are a threat to native wildlife.
Additionally, they may pose a threat to the agricultural interest and public safety of the state. The worry here is that a pet could escape and end up breeding with other species in the state or end up outcompeting other species.
Essentially this means that it could cause the detriment and extinction of other animals already native to California. The law is in place to protect the existing animals and wildlife.
The possession of any Ambystoma species is a crime in this state, regardless of what any pet store says, or whether you purchased the animal outside of the state. So, it is not just axolotls that are illegal here, but any type of Ambystoma animal. It is illegal to keep, import, and export any Ambystoma species in California. I hope this explanation has helped you if you were wondering are axolotls legal in California.
Colorado
Are axolotls illegal in Colorado?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Colorado.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Colorado.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Colorado?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Colorado.
Connecticut
Are axolotls illegal in Connecticut?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Connecticut.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Connecticut.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Connecticut?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Connecticut.
Delaware
Are axolotls illegal in Delaware?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Delaware.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Delaware.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Delaware?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Delaware.
Florida
Are axolotls illegal in Florida?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Florida.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Florida.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Florida?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Florida.
Georgia
Are axolotls illegal in Georgia?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Georgia.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Georgia.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Georgia?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Georgia.
Hawaii
Are axolotls illegal in Hawaii?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Hawaii.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Hawaii.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Hawaii?
Yes, a permit is required to keep a pet axolotl in Hawaii.
Idaho
Are axolotls illegal in Idaho?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Idaho.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Idaho.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Idaho?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Idaho.
Illinois
Are axolotls illegal in Illinois?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Illinois.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Illinois.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Illinois?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Illinois.
Indiana
Are axolotls illegal in Indiana?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Indiana.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Indiana.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Indiana?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Indiana.
Iowa
Are axolotls illegal in Iowa?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Iowa.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Iowa.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Iowa?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Iowa.
Kansas
Are axolotls illegal in Kansas?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Kansas.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Kansas.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Kansas?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Kansas .
Kentucky
Are axolotls illegal in Kentucky?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Kentucky.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Kentucky.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Kentucky?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Kentucky.
Louisiana
Are axolotls illegal in Louisiana?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Louisiana.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Louisiana.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Louisiana?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Louisiana.
Maine
Are axolotls illegal in Maine?
Yes, axolotls are illegal in Maine.
In other words, axolotls are not legal in Maine.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Maine?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Maine because axolotl ownership is prohibited.
Why Are Axolotls Illegal in Maine?
Another place where it is illegal to own and keep an axolotl as a pet in the state of Maine. The main reason for this is similar to that of California’s reasoning- being that the law is in place to protect the wildlife, public and natural resources.
Axolotls are not native to the state and thus if they were ever introduced it’s feared that they could become an invasive species and pose a threat to the existing animals and wildlife. As with the Californian concern, the worry is that if one were to be accidentally released, it would cause an effect on the current natural ecosystems; an effect that no one could predict and could have a negative impact.
In Maine however, the rule that you mustn’t have an axolotl as a pet is upheld by the department of fish and wildlife.
It is said that Maine has one of the strictest rules on not allowing exotic animals or even plants into the state.
Maryland
Are axolotls illegal in Maryland?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Maryland.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Maryland.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Maryland?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Maryland.
Massachusetts
Are axolotls illegal in Massachusetts?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Massachusetts.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Massachusetts.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Massachusetts?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Massachusetts.
Michigan
Are axolotls illegal in Michigan?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Michigan.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Michigan.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Michigan?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Michigan.
Minnesota
Are axolotls illegal in Minnesota?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Minnesota.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Minnesota.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Minnesota?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Minnesota.
Mississippi
Are axolotls illegal in Mississippi?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Mississippi.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Mississippi.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Mississippi?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Mississippi.
Montana
Are axolotls illegal in Montana?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Montana.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Montana.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Montana?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Montana.
Nebraska
Are axolotls illegal in Nebraska?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Nebraska.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Nebraska.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Nebraska?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Nebraska .
Nevada
Are axolotls illegal in Nevada?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Nevada.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Nevada.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Nevada?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Nevada.
New Hampshire
Are axolotls illegal in New Hampshire?
No, axolotls are not illegal in New Hampshire.
In other words, axolotls are legal in New Hampshire.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in New Hampshire?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in New Hampshire.
New Jersey
Are axolotls illegal in New Jersey?
Yes, axolotls are illegal in New Jersey.
In other words, axolotls are not legal in New Jersey.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in New Jersey?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in New Jersey because pet axolotl ownership is prohibited.
Why are axolotls Illegal in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, there is a species known as ‘Tiger Salamanders’ which often get confused with axolotls due to their similarities.
The Tiger Salamander is native to this state and naturally lives there habitually. The concern when it comes to axolotls is that if one were to ever be accidentally introduced to these salamanders, they could breed together to create hybrids.
Tiger Salamanders are an endangered species, just as axolotls are, and so the state of Maine upholds this rule to protect their native salamanders.
New Mexico
Are axolotls illegal in New Mexico?
No, axolotls are not illegal in New Mexico.
In other words, axolotls are legal in New MexicoNew Mexico.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in New Mexico?
Yes, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in New Mexico.
Why Are Axolotl Permits Required In New Mexico?
A permit is required to own an axolotl in New Mexico. The permit serves as proof that the axolotl was purchased from an authorized retailer, that its origin is known, and that it is legally owned.
Although it is perfectly okay and legal for you to have a pet axolotl, it is not legal to import them.
This means that your axolotl must be sold, bought, and kept in New Mexico at all times. You are not allowed to import the creatures from other states or countries, nor are you permitted to export them elsewhere.
New York
Are axolotls illegal in New York?
No, axolotls are not illegal in New York.
In other words, axolotls are legal in New York.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in New York?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in New York.
North Carolina
Are axolotls illegal in North Carolina?
No, axolotls are not illegal in North Carolina.
In other words, axolotls are legal in North Carolina.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in North Carolina?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in North Carolina.
North Dakota
Are axolotls illegal in North Dakota?
No, axolotls are not illegal in North Dakota.
In other words, axolotls are legal in North Dakota.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in North Dakota?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in North Dakota.
Ohio
Are axolotls illegal in Ohio?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Ohio.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Ohio.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Ohio?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Ohio.
Oklahoma
Are axolotls illegal in Oklahoma?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Oklahoma.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Oklahoma.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Oklahoma?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Oklahoma.
Oregon
Are axolotls illegal in Oregon?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Oregon.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Oregon.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Oregon?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Oregon.
Pennsylvania
Are axolotls illegal in Pennsylvania?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Pennsylvania.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Pennsylvania.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Pennsylvania?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Pennsylvania.
Rhode Island
Are axolotls illegal in Rhode Island?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Rhode Island.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Rhode Island.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Rhode Island?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Rhode Island.
South Carolina
Are axolotls illegal in South Carolina?
No, axolotls are not illegal in South Carolina.
In other words, axolotls are legal in South Carolina.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in South Carolina?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in South Carolina.
South Dakota
Are axolotls illegal in South Dakota?
No, axolotls are not illegal in South Dakota.
In other words, axolotls are legal in South Dakota.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in South Dakota?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in South Dakota.
Tennessee
Are axolotls illegal in Tennessee?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Tennessee.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Tennessee.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Tennessee?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Tennessee.
Texas
Are axolotls illegal in Texas?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Texas.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Texas.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Texas?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Texas.
Utah
Are axolotls illegal in Utah?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Utah.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Utah.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Utah?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Utah.
Vermont
Are axolotls illegal in Vermont?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Vermont.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Vermont.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Vermont?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Vermont.
Virginia
A massive thank you to a reader of ours (K Heller) for kindly pointing out the recent change in legislation regarding ownership of axolotls in Virginia. We’ve updated this post accordingly.
Are axolotls illegal in Virginia?
No, axolotls are no longer illegal in Virginia. Indeed, as of August 1st, 2021, it is legal to import, export, sell, and possess axolotls in Virginia.
Check out the link below for the latest official update on the subject:
Mexican Axolotls in Virginia | Virginia DWR
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Virginia?
No, a permit is no longer required to keep an axolotl in Virginia.
Why Are Axolotls Illegal In Virginia?
It used to be illegal for axolotls to be kept, sold, or bred as a pet in Virginia. This is no longer the case and the law was changed recently. Axolotls were made illegal for a while because they are considered exotic animals and it was considered to be in the best interest of the welfare of native wildlife for them not to be intermixed, which could happen accidentally.
On under the law in Virginia, axolotls must have a permit to be kept. This does mean technically that it is possible to have certain exotic pets, however, it is difficult to obtain one of the said permits. This is because they don’t want to risk a situation of accidental non-native animal release into the wild.
Washington
Are axolotls illegal in Washington?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Washington.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Washington.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Washington?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Washington.
West Virginia
Are axolotls illegal in West Virginia?
No, axolotls are not illegal in West Virginia.
In other words, axolotls are legal in West Virginia.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in West Virginia?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in West Virginia.
Wisconsin
Are axolotls illegal in Wisconsin?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Wisconsin.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Wisconsin.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Wisconsin?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Wisconsin.
Wyoming
Are axolotls illegal in Wyoming?
No, axolotls are not illegal in Wyoming.
In other words, axolotls are legal in Wyoming.
Is a permit required to keep axolotls in Wyoming?
No, a permit is not required to keep a pet axolotl in Wyoming.