The Axolotl

Deep beneath the canals of Xochimilco in Mexico lives one of the strangest (and cutest) creatures on Earth: the axolotl.

Meet Ralph, an axolotl who is VERY tired of looking like a baby.

While the other animals zoom around the canals having fun, Ralph is determined to become a serious grown-up. He grows a moss mustache. Carries an important-looking briefcase. Attends “business meetings.” And even tries disgusting grown-up food.

There’s just one problem: being a grown-up is exhausting.

Join Carie, Lincoln, and Eliza as they dive into the weird and wonderful world of the axolotl: the smiling salamander who never grows up.

Kids will discover:

How axolotls can regrow legs, tails, and even parts of their heartsWhy scientists study axolotls to learn about healing and regenerationHow axolotls slurp up food like underwater vacuum cleanersWhy wild axolotls are critically endangered in MexicoKeep exploring:

Download an axolotl coloring sheet Follow us on Instagram @wildandkindkidspodShow us your coloring sheet or request an animal: wildandkindkidspod@gmail.comSign up for email updatesLearn along with us and explore some of the resources we consulted:

Axolotl (National Geographic Kids) 10 Absolutely Amazing Axolotl Facts (WWF) Adopt an Axolotl Virtually New axolotl study gives researchers a leg up in work towards limb regeneration (U.S. National Science Foundation) Axolotls can regrow limbs. Could they one day help us do the same? (National Geographic)