The Axolotl: Nature's Pokemon

I love axolotls, and you should too. Reptiles and amphibians have always had a special place in my heart, but the squishy pink alienness of axolotls makes them especially endearing.

This is Spyyk, a very happy and handsome specimen. You can read all about him at his owner's blog.

(But Rie, you say, what does this have to do with Francesca Lia Block?

The world is a weird and wonderful place, I'd reply, and also Witch Baby would have one for a pet. She would name it Annie Liebowitz.)

These neotenic amphibians are pretty special little guys--not only do they make great pets, but they've helped scientists learn a lot about nerve regeneration. Sadly, due to invasive non-native species and the destruction of their native habitat, they are severely endangered. How can you help? Don't eat Mexican tilapia (they're not native, and eat juvenile axolotls), and spread the word.

Quote Dapper Cadaver's eloquent post, "Scientists are rushing to establish Axolotl sanctuaries, most notably around the Isle of Dolls or La Isla de las Muñecas, so called because it inhabited by an eccentric old man who fishes doll from the lake and hangs them from every part of the island to ward off evil spirits. Could he be the axolotls savior?"

Weird and wonderful. Yes.

If you want a bit of their pink alien squishiness to yourself...

 

You could bake an axolotl cake...

Or give a home to this cuddly life-size amigarumi specimen by Etsy seller KATZ...

Or this itty-bitty phonestrap buddy from Strapya World.