Mexico City's mayor has faced criticism for a city-wide beautification project featuring axolotl murals and purple paint ahead of the FIFA World Cup. Residents argue funds could be better spent on infrastructure, while the mayor defends the initiative as bringing color and improving public spaces.
A critically endangered axolotl has been discovered under the 15th-century Dipping Bridge over the River Ogwr in Merthyr Mawr, south Wales – believed to be the first ever found in the wild in the UK. The 22cm amphibian, named Dippy, was discovered by 10-year-old Evie Hill last weekend. Animal welfare experts think the Pokémon-like creature was deliberately released, which is illegal and harmful to animal welfare.
A family from Tredegar who now own 20 axolotls are warning others about the commitment required after the amphibians' popularity surged due to Minecraft and Roblox. The creatures, critically endangered in the wild with as few as 50 to 1,000 left globally, can live for up to 20 years and require complex tank setup including a 'fishless cycle'. Rescue centres report being overwhelmed with unwanted axolotls, with one owner surrendering 160 amphibians.
The axolotl's appearance in Minecraft and Roblox has driven a surge in UK pet ownership of the critically endangered amphibian, with experts warning the animals require complex care for up to 20 years. Owners and rescue centres report many are given up after owners underestimate the commitment needed, including specific water conditions and a 'fishless cycle' tank setup taking up to 12 weeks.
A 10-year-old girl discovered an endangered Mexican axolotl in the River Ogmore in Bridgend, Wales — the first documented wild discovery of the species in the UK. The family took the amphibian home to Leicester, naming it Dippy. Experts estimate only 50 to 1,000 axolotls remain globally.
A 10-year-old girl in Wales discovered a Mexican axolotl—the first documented wild discovery in the UK—under the Dippng Bridge near the River Ogmore in Bridgend. Evie Hill found the nine-inch endangered amphibian, which has only 50-1,000 individuals remaining globally. The family took the damaged axolotl home to Leicester, naming it Dippy. Experts say the discovery is unique and Evie likely saved its life. The axolotl's popularity in video games like Minecraft and Roblox has raised concerns about improper pet care.
A 10-year-old girl discovered an injured axolotl, a critically endangered aquatic salamander native to Mexico, while holidaying in south Wales. Evie Hill found the 9-inch creature under Dipping Bridge on the River Ogmore near Bridgend. The axolotl, named Dippy, has injuries to its tail and stomach believed to have been caused by a predator. The discovery has raised questions about whether the animal was abandoned by a pet owner, as it's illegal to release axolotls into the wild in the UK. The species has gained popularity through social media and video games.
