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Girl's rare discovery shocks family
A 10-year-old nature enthusiast has made the first documented sighting of a Mexican axolotl in the wild in the UK, leaving her mother stunned.
Evie Hill was exploring the River Ogmore near Bridgend, Wales, when she spotted the endangered amphibian under a discarded mat beneath the Dipping Bridge. The nine-inch creature, later named Dippy, had visible injuries to its tail and stomach.
From holiday pastime to rescue mission
Evie and her mother, Melanie, were touring Wales in a camper van when the discovery occurred. Melanie initially dismissed the find as another of Evie's frequent wildlife encounters-until she realized the rarity of the species.
"I've been telling Evie all this time that those creatures she watches on YouTube aren't real. Here I am with one in my kitchen."
Melanie Hill
The family cut their trip short to transport Dippy to their home in Leicester, where they set up a larger tank for its care.
Expert confirms lifesaving intervention
Chris Newman, director of the National Centre for Reptile Welfare (NCRW), said Evie's actions likely saved the axolotl's life. Without her intervention, the injured creature would have had little chance of survival in the wild.
Newman noted that Dippy's presence in the river suggested it had been released by an owner unable to care for it-a practice both illegal and harmful to the species.
Axolotls: A fragile species
Axolotls, a type of salamander, retain their aquatic features throughout their lives, unlike other amphibians that transition to land. They are critically endangered in the wild, with only 50 to 1,000 remaining globally due to habitat loss in Mexico.
Their popularity as pets has surged in recent years, partly due to appearances in video games like Minecraft and Roblox. However, experts warn they require specialized care, and impulsive purchases often lead to abandonment.
School sensation and conservation lessons
Dippy's story has captivated Evie's schoolmates, sparking discussions about wildlife conservation. Melanie said the family spent hours researching how to keep the axolotl healthy and has no regrets about adopting it.
Newman emphasized the importance of reporting such discoveries to authorities, as non-native species releases can disrupt local ecosystems.
"This is a quite unique situation, and I think the young female has a keen eye to actually spot it."
Chris Newman, NCRW Director
