We've been thinking about something at Lizzy's Lotyls that is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore. We are now being contacted approximately three times a week by people asking if we can take axolotls they can no longer keep. Some surrender requests involve two, three, four, or even five axolotls at a time. And here's the part that's important: We produced none of these animals. These aren't animals coming back to us from our own breeding program. They are axolotls produ

From the new owner: "I wanted to give you a little update on “Sensational Strength”! The post office near me received her on Tuesday and let me know that I could come and pick her up if I didn’t want to wait on her delivery scheduled for Wednesday, so I was able to bring her home earlier than anticipated! So far she’s doing great- she acclimated well, no signs of stress, and was happy to get a snack. She’s getting along wonderfully with her new tankmate, no troubles with ni

There is a big difference between simply having axolotls that reproduce versus operating a breeding program that is built around the long-term health, genetics and welfare of the animals. A backyard breeder may have a few animals, produce a clutch and find homes for the babies. A large retailer operates on an entirely different model, where animals move through a commercial supply chain. Neither comparison really describes what we do at Lizzy’s Lotyls. Our goal isn't simply

Industry-Leading DNA Sexing 🧬 Industry-leading DNA sexing. Lizzy's Lotyls offers DNA sexed specimens using a veterinary-backed, non-invasive PCR slime coat swab. This method allows customers to purchase axolotls with greater confidence about their sex—much earlier than would otherwise be possible. Health Comes First ❤️ Health comes first. Every axolotl is individually monitored and housed. They only leave when they are healthy and thriving. Animals are evaluated before going

Buying an older axolotl can be a great decision, especially for first-time keepers or anyone looking for a more predictable pet. Here are some of the biggest advantages: 1. You know what you're getting. By the time an axolotl is older: Its coloration and pattern are fully developed. Its body shape and overall quality are easier to evaluate. Many physical traits that aren't obvious in juveniles have become apparent. There are fewer surprises compared to purchasing a very youn

"ACE" the axolotl also known as "Aqua Charm". Ace is a proven female we produced and hatched in the winter of 2025. Isn't she just stunning with all those pretty sparkles! She was picked up locally from us here in Marshfield, MA. If only I could keep them all. -Lizzy

Raspberry Beret's Safe Arrival Oh. My. Goodness! Yesterday, I received the wonderful news that our adult male axolotl, "Raspberry Beret," arrived safely in Coatesville, PA, from Marshfield, MA! We overnighted this 12-inch "monster" with ease. The new owners are already in love with him. And, he looks SO good! I got to see photos of his GIANT tank setup just after he was acclimated. It made my day to learn how happy his human family of five is (now plus one amphibian)! Thanks

It's "Wollaston", DNA confirmed male leucistic, from our MBTA clutch! We're currently coaching his new owner on tank cycling with water parameter help via text messages! Meanwhile, he hangs out in his tub eating and enjoying all the things! The nitrogen cycle in his main tank continues to progress. And, it will be ready for occupancy very soon! Wollaston now hails from Pembroke, MA--I love that the new owner kept his original name! See his name tag in the upper right

We're so happy to be axolotl sitting "Cookie" of Walpole, MA this week! She is a DNA confirmed female hailing from our MBTA clutch! It's lovely seeing her again! How do you like 'dem gills!!!!!!??? Wow! Meet Cookie, Our Special Guest This week, we are thrilled to care for Cookie. She is a DNA confirmed female axolotl from our MBTA clutch. It is always a joy to see her again. Her gills are vibrant and full of life. Why Axolotl Sitting is Important Axolotl sitting is a great

🦎 Meet the Breeder: Elisabeth “Lizzy” Harper Elisabeth “Lizzy” Harper is the passionate owner and founder of Lizzy’s Lotyls, LLC , a Massachusetts-based axolotl breeding and boarding business dedicated to producing healthy, ethically bred pet axolotls. With a Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Management from the University of New Hampshire (2002) , Lizzy has built a career rooted in animal care, science, and welfare. She has spent over 20 years at Tufts University in Boston, M

Well look who is the literal "Queen" of her new tank!!!!??? It's our DNA proven female, "Longwood", now known as "Squish"! Her new owners came to us locally from Whitman, MA. They recently experienced the loss of their 12 year old albino axolotl and were ready for a new journey with this baby gal! According to her new family, "She is just the best!".

HEYY YOU GUYS!!!!! This just in! A representative teacher from the Hingham Middle School just picked up our axolotl known as "Spring Hair"! The students have been working hard on getting a tank ready with our tank cycling coaching since late January! Whelp, as of yesterday, we confirmed that this middle school's tank was fully cycled! "Spring Hair" (pictured) is now bagged and in route to the school to ensure a happy friday for all! Hoorayyyyy! And, we'll be here for t

The Lizzy’s Lotyls Difference: At Lizzy’s Lotyls, we believe informed keepers make the best caretakers—and that starts with science. Sexing axolotls can be difficult, especially in juveniles or individuals that don’t show clear physical traits. That’s why we utilize PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) genetic sex sampling to determine sex accurately and responsibly. Using a non-invasive slime coat swab and following the most humane standard operating procedures developed by Lizz

Every once in a while something surfaces in the exotic pet trade that makes you stop and ask a simple question: Just because something can be done… should it be? Recently, conversations have once again begun circulating about “checkerboard axolotls” and other animals with dramatic patchwork patterns. In some cases, these patterns are not the result of natural genetics or selective breeding. Instead, they are created through skin grafting , where pieces of tissue from one a

Most animal breeder communities are divided into two groups: Builders. focused on animals focused on education supportive of responsible breeding Competitors with a desire for conflict--"trolls". focused on market share focused on controlling narratives often engage in conflict and enjoy baiting for conflict publicly The healthiest groups of animal breeders tend to be the ones that set standards and refuse to participate in bullying, gossip, and/or baited tactics from competi

The Risks of Buying from Unestablished Sellers 1. No Business Identity A reputable breeder or business should have: A business name A website or official page Public policies A visible history of customer reviews When someone only sells through private messages, there is often no accountability and no verifiable reputation. If something goes wrong, buyers may have no way to contact them again. 2. No Animal Care Standards Responsible breeders invest significant time and resour

This setup is one of our favorites because it shows how artificial plants and living plants can work cohesively in an axolotl tank. Artificial plants Zero maintenance No surprises Always choose soft plants (with no sharp edges to prevent tail tears and injuries) Live plants Help with water quality Add natural enrichment Create that lush, underwater jungle vibe One of our absolute live favorites? Lucky bamboo It’s hardy, axolotl-safe, and thrives with its roots submerg

We’re often asked for wholesale axolotls or axolotl eggs in bulk--including occasional requests from the bigger box distributors and larger aquatic pet stores, but frequently from others as well! Why do we say no? We believe that the answer is simple: We feel the future of this salamander species matters MORE than scale, ease, and quick profits with less overhead costs. Axolotls and their eggs sold for mass distribution may very well lose all and/or be given indirect, inaccur

We say this with love: but, buying two unsexed axolotls on a whim can quickly turn into a stressful situation—for you and for them. Here’s why Sex is not visually obvious until maturity. Two “cute babies” can later turn into a male + female combo without warning. Surprise breeding is NOT harmless Unplanned breeding can result in hundreds of eggs, health risks for the female, and ethical responsibility for babies you didn’t plan, prepare, or have homes for. Cohabitation of m