An exotic Mexican axolotl was recently discovered in the UK by a brave 10-year-old girl named Evie Hill from Leicester. The unique nine-inch axolotl was found during a day trip with her mother, Melanie, along the River Ogmore in Bridgend, Wales. This marks the first time an axolotl has been spotted in the wild in the United Kingdom, particularly of an endangered species with a population estimate of only 50 to 1,000 worldwide.

Evie recounted her encounter with the axolotl, sharing how she stumbled upon it while exploring rocks beneath a bridge. Recognizing the amphibian from her favorite video game, Minecraft, she immediately knew it was an axolotl by its distinctive gills. Despite initial disbelief from her mother, Evie managed to catch the axolotl and brought it to shore.

Due to legal restrictions under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 that prohibit releasing non-native species into the environment, Evie and Melanie decided to take the axolotl home. The axolotl, named Dippy by Evie, now resides with the family in Leicester, much to the delight of her school friends.

Chris Newman, the director of the National Centre for Reptile Welfare, commended Evie for her discovery, stating that she likely saved Dippy’s life. He highlighted the rarity of Mexican axolotl sightings in the UK and worldwide, emphasizing the young girl’s remarkable observation skills and agility in capturing the slippery amphibian.

This remarkable find by Evie showcases the significance of protecting and preserving endangered species like the Mexican axolotl, underscoring the importance of conservation efforts to safeguard unique wildlife populations.