Named for an Aztec God, This Species Is Critically Endangered | National Geographic

This unique salamander in Mexico is now fighting against extinction.
➡ Subscribe: http://bit.ly/NatGeoSubscribe

About National Geographic:
National Geographic is the world’s premium destination for science, exploration, and adventure. Through their world-class scientists, photographers, journalists, and filmmakers, Nat Geo gets you closer to the stories that matter and past the edge of what’s possible.

Get More National Geographic:
Official Site: http://bit.ly/NatGeoOfficialSite
Facebook: http://bit.ly/FBNatGeo
Twitter: http://bit.ly/NatGeoTwitter
Instagram: http://bit.ly/NatGeoInsta

The axolotl is one of the few animals on earth that can regenerate parts of its body. Native to Mexico, the axolotl is an unusual amphibian that has deep roots in Aztec mythology. According to legend, this “water monster” was a god who disguised himself as a salamander to avoid sacrifice. Nowadays, it is critically endangered in the wild because of the pollution and urban sprawl that threaten its habitat in the Mexican Basin.

Scientists and local people have joined together to save the axolotl from extinction. Through a breeding program, new colonies of axolotls are released into a restricted area where they can thrive under close monitoring. The hope is for this species to repopulate and survive in its natural environment.

Read “Watch How Bizarre ‘Water Monsters’ Get a Second Chance” on National Geographic News.
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/2016/10/endangered-axolotls-conservation-mexico-city-chinampa/

Learn more about the axolotl.
http://animals.nationalgeographic.com/animals/amphibians/axolotl/

Named for an Aztec God, This Species Is Critically Endangered | National Geographic

National Geographic
https://www.youtube.com/natgeo