A 10-year-old girl has discovered a rare axolotl under a bridge in south Wales, believed to be the first of its species found in the wild in the UK. The amphibian, named Dippy after the 15th-century Dipping Bridge in Merthyr Mawr near Bridgend, was found by Evie Hill last weekend. Experts say the critically endangered Mexican salamander was likely an abandoned pet.
Chris Newman, director of the National Centre for Reptile Welfare, said axolotls can survive in the UK climate but would be vulnerable to predatory fish like pike or perch. He speculated the animal was deliberately released, which is illegal and poor for welfare. Dippy had injuries to its tail and stomach, thought to be from a predator.
Axolotls, known for their regenerative abilities and neotenic traits, have seen a surge in popularity as pets, driven by internet memes, videos, and appearances in games like Fortnite and Minecraft. However, rescue centres report being overwhelmed by abandoned animals, as inexperienced owners struggle with their long lifespan and high egg production.
Evie and her mother Melanie have taken Dippy in and are documenting its recovery on TikTok. Melanie said the axolotl is eating bloodworm from a syringe and receiving methylene blue soaks for its injuries. Newman urged owners unable to care for their pets to seek help from rescue centres rather than releasing them into the wild.
