Animal Amigos

This iconic salamander is making its debut here at the Indianapolis Zoo! The axolotl is a freshwater salamander native only to Lake Xochimilco in Mexico. They are extremely important to scientific research because of their ability to regrow their limbs, tails and even parts of their brain and eyes. Axolotls are also unique because, unlike most other salamanders, they keep their gills and live their entire lives in water.

Like all animals at the Indianapolis Zoo, our axolotls are ambassadors for their counterparts in the wild. Today, they are listed as a critically endangered species, with there currently only being 50 – 1,000 mature individuals. Their population has long been under threat from habitat loss, pollution and the introduction of invasive species. Through the Animal Amigo program, you support the care of our axolotls here at the Zoo and support the Indianapolis Zoo’s global conservation efforts.

WHAT YOU GET

For a donation of $50 or more, you’ll receive an Animal Amigo package which includes one axolotl plush, photo, certificate, trading card and recognition on the Animal Amigo donor board.*