Yes, Axolotls are illegal in California, which means you can’t just keep one as a pet and will be good to go. Nah! If you’re found keeping one as a pet, there can be some legal action taken against you. But it might sound a bit over-enforced law or something like that, considering the fact that Axolotls look super cute and not that harmful, right? Well, let’s just get to that part first.
Are Axolotls Actually Illegal in California?
Yes, it is true that basically, axolotls as pets in California are against the law. Plain and simple! To be more specific about the law, see, they are considered as a restricted species in Title 14, Section 671 of the California Code of Regulations. And because they are classified as a restricted species, normal pet owners are not allowed to keep them in a legal way. But yes, if you have a special permit, which is mostly not issued for personal use, then it is possible to keep one.
Why Are Axolotls Banned in California? Like What Is So Big Of A Reason?
Sure, we get it, from the looks of it, it might look weird as axolotls are small and appear to be quite nice. However, their size or cuteness is not the matter; the concern is about. The aim is to preserve the species that live naturally in the area, in particular, the already heavily endangered California tiger salamander.
So the idea here is that in case axolotls found their way into a nearby lake or river, they would be able to compete with the local salamanders for food and the living area. Moreover, as axolotls are resistant creatures, they may eventually dominate our indigenous species. And sure enough, such a disturbance of the ecosystem has been the case with various released pets in other states, and therefore, California has decided to go a preventive way instead of handling the problems after that.
What About Other States in the U.S.?
True, it is not that every state has the same rules. Like, several states out there such as Texas, Florida, and Ohio, permit axolotls to be kept as ordinary pets without the need for any documentation. On the other hand, there are a few places like Maine, New Jersey, and Washington D.C., which have imposed complete bans similar to that of California. Apart from that, some states like New Mexico and Hawaii might give the green light to the possession of axolotls, but only if one has a permit.
What Happens If Someone Gets Caught with an Axolotl in California?
You have one? And what if you get caught? Well, one will be in big trouble if he/she keeps an axolotl in California without the right permission. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife will seize the animal, impose penalties, and charge you with violating laws related to restricted species.
Not a single doubt in the fact that It is against the law to place an order for one over the Internet and send it to California. A person who transports a live axolotl from one state to another is considered illegal as well. Basically, you cannot hide a fish from the authorities and keep it at home without risking your freedom.
Why the Law Makes Sense in the Long Run
It is quite understandable that you feel sad when a pet which looks harmless is not allowed to be kept in your possession. But the thing is, California is fully aware what kind of havoc a few non-native species can wreak very rapidly when they get out or are let go in nature. It is really tough to mend the harm that is left behind.
