Axolotls (Ambystoma mexicanum) are a type of salamander native to Lake Xochimilco in Mexico City. Famed for being the amphibian that never grows up, these creatures feature many unique characteristics and traits, making them a popular creature amongst children and adults alike.
If you’re curious about the ins and outs of their appearance, there’s no better way to learn more about it than by putting pen to paper and drawing an axolotl!
What will I need?
Feeling creative? We’re here to show you how to draw a common axolotl in just a few simple and easy steps. But first, you’ll need a few supplies, including:
- Paper
- Pencil
- Black marker pen
- Coloured pens/pencils
- Rubber
How to draw an axolotl
If you’re a visual learner, our video below should help you perfect your axolotl drawing.
Create your own axolotl drawing with our six easy steps below…
Step 1: Start by drawing an oval shape – this will be the axolotl’s head.
Step 2: Add a curved line from the top of the head and another at the bottom of the head. These should meet in a rounded edge on the right side of the head. Then, add another two curved lines meeting at a point, with the inner top line connected to the outer top line and the inner bottom line unconnected.
Step 3: Draw three feet at the bottom of the body. The two front feet should have four toes each, and the back foot we can see (the other would be hidden at this angle!) should have five toes. Don’t forget to add the webbing between each toe!
Step 4: Draw six cloud-like shapes around the axolotl’s head – three on the left and three on the right. Any lines that overlap into these cloud shapes can be rubbed out.
Step 5: Next, add curved shapes inside each of the cloud-like shapes to finish off the axolotl’s gills.
Step 6: The final step is to colour in your axolotl. We’ve gone for the most common pink colour, with a darker shade on the dorsal fin and gills and a lighter shade elsewhere. Finish off by drawing contrasting stripes on the body and dorsal fin and give the axolotl two eyes and a wide mouth.
Want to know more about axolotls?
Fascinated by these lake-dwelling creatures? You’re in luck – we’ve caught a few extra facts in our net to share with you.
Axolotl facts
- The most common colour is pink, but they can come in different colour variations: Axolotls can also be green, blue, red, black and more colours, although these other colours are much rarer. Why not test these combinations out when you’re colouring yours in?
- Axolotl gills are found on top of their heads: They have feathery external gills which help them breathe underwater. This also gives them their recognisable appearance!
- They can also regenerate their limbs: As with other salamander species, axolotls can regrow missing limbs, including their hands, feet and tails. Not only this, but they can also regrow organs. This ability means the species is a common scientific study subject.
- Axolotls can camouflage themselves: In the wild, axolotls can change the hue of their colours to help them blend in and stay safe from predators.
- They’re neotenic: Axolotls retain their juvenile features into adulthood, including external gills, tails, body fins and fixed eyelids. They also remain aquatic throughout their lives.
Eager for more interesting axolotl facts? Check out our blog featuring 23 things you should know about these adorable little creatures.
See our very own axolotls in our Temple of Frogs exhibit here at Deep Sea World. Click here to start planning your next fun-filled day out with us!