From TikTok to McDonald’s Happy Meals, Mexico’s ancient axolotl is everywhere, except where it is supposed to be—in the wild.

MEXICO CITY — Legend has it the axolotl was not always an amphibian. Long before it became Mexico’s most beloved salamander and efforts to prevent its extinction flourished, it was a sneaky god.

appearing as characters in Minecraft, Fortnite and Pokémon and inspiring a McDonald’s Happy Meal toy. Where the axolotl can barely be found: in its natural habitat in Mexico.

A museum and conservation centre dedicated to Mexico’s critically endangered axolotl salamander is highlighting the amphibian’s remarkable story that has captured the attention of scientists ...

(via PBS Terra) In the southern part of Mexico City lies Xochimilco, a maze of canals filled with boats ... And within these canals, in a city of 22 million people, lies the last remaining wild ...

Wild ones are typically dark-colored. The axolotl is also called the Mexican salamander. In its country of origin, Mexico, the axolotl population has decreased due to environmental contamination ...

In recent tariff discussions between President Donald Trump and Mexico, our border neighbor agreed to send more troops to slow illegal immigration. In return, Mexico sought help to stem the flood ...

The horror has reignited fury over Mexico’s epidemic of disappearances—and the government’s inaction. “Mexico is a mass grave,” read one sign at a vigil. Disappearances became common ...