Can You Hold An Axolotl?
An Axolotl is known as walking fish, but it is not actually a fish, it is an amphibian. It is also commonly called as the Mexican walking fish, a neotenic salamander related to tiger salamanders. This kind of amphibians can be found in lakes, specifically in Lake Xochimilco, underlying Mexico City.
Can you hold an axolotl? Yes, you can hold an axolotl. Use both of your hands so it won’t slip forward. Axolotl is a very delicate creature, so experts advise that it should be handled or touched only when necessary.
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As you continue to read on, you will be able to learn more about axolotl, specifically ways on how to hold them properly.
Proper Way Of Holding
Compared to fish, axolotls do not have a sensitive, protective layer so that they can be held. As said, you can only hold them whenever it’s necessary, meaning when you’re moving them out of their tank into a feeding container. Holding them means that you only have ample time so, better to hold them with gentleness and make sure to grab them tightly. It is like you are holding a small bird or insect but with a more gentle touch so it won’t freak them out.
If you fail to do it, there’s a huge possibility that they will escape off from your hands. The best method of holding an axolotl is with your two hands to stop them from slipping forward. They can slip backward. If it’s your first time holding an axolotl, try to relax and don’t freak out too when they freak out. When this situation happens, do not force yourself to keep them in your hands, let them go and wait for a while.
To successfully hold them, make use of your fingers to gently separate its legs and get a thumb and finger in front of its legs. In this way, you can stop them by using their legs to propel themselves out of your hand immediately. Remember, when they freak out, let them go and wait for a while until its calm for you to hold again.
Feeding An Axolotl
Exerts say that you can’t just hold an axolotl whenever you want to, except if you are transferring them to their home. Axolotls are carnivore species, but that doesn’t mean that they want to feed by meat. They prefer to eat bait worms, which can be purchased at a fishing supply store and a bloodworm cubes. They can also eat frozen shrimps or a ball of raw hamburger meat.
If you want to keep an axolotl as a pet, make sure that you have an adequate tank for them that is kept at the right temperature. Make sure that water temperature is cool, around 57 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit (14 and 20 degrees Celsius). Also, never allow it to get above 75 F (24 C). Yes, an axolotl can be a great companion as long as you feed them well and that you are accordingly supervised on how to handle them as a pet.
Conclusion
In general, an axolotl is harmless and is easy to handle with so long as you have this guide when you decide to make them as your pet. As a pet owner of this unique specie, you should make sure that they’re not harmed nor injured by someone else’s aggressiveness. Those simple ways will help you keep them feel safe and loved in your simple ways. Remember that although they are in a salamander family, this species is hard to find, so better handle them with care.
