Yes, owning an axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) is legal in Colombia, but subject to strict environmental and wildlife protection regulations.
The species is not listed under CITES or Colombia’s endangered species decree, yet its importation and trade require permits from the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development (Ministerio de Ambiente y Desarrollo Sostenible, MADS). Unauthorized breeding or commercialization may trigger penalties under Law 1955 of 2019 and Decree 1076 of 2015. Recent 2026 compliance shifts emphasize traceability for exotic pets, mandating health certificates and origin verification.
Key Regulations for Owning an Axolotl in Colombia
- Permit Requirement: A Permiso de Recolección de Especímenes de la Diversidad Biológica is mandatory for possession, issued by MADS or regional environmental authorities (CARs). This applies even to captive-bred specimens.
- Health and Quarantine: Imported axolotls must undergo a 30-day quarantine at an authorized facility, per Resolution 2064 of 2019, to prevent disease transmission. Local authorities may conduct inspections.
- Prohibited Practices: Selling axolotls without proper documentation or in unauthorized markets violates Decree 1076. Non-compliance risks fines up to 5,000 minimum legal wages or confiscation under Law 2111 of 2021.