Imagine you are sitting near a fish tank and suddenly you hear a soft click sound. You look around and think, “Was it the filter? Or my axolotl?” Many axolotl keepers ask this question: do axolotls make sounds? These little creatures look silent, but they are very naughty and happy pets, sometimes they do surprise us. In this guide, I will explain what kind of sounds axolotls can make, why they make them, and what you should do if you notice strange noises. Let’s start!
Do Axolotls Really Make Sounds?
Axolotls are known as quiet pets. They don’t bark like dogs or meow like cats. Most of the time, you will never hear a single sound from them. But sometimes, they produce very soft noises. These sounds are not common, but when they happen, they catch your attention quickly.
Types of Sounds Axolotls Can Make
1. Clicking Sounds
Some axolotl owners report that their pets make tiny clicking noises. It almost sounds like someone is tapping two small stones together under water. These clicks are usually harmless and may happen when the axolotl is moving its jaws or swallowing food.
2. Hiccup-Like Noises
Yes, axolotls can make a noise that feels like a hiccup. This can happen if they gulp air at the surface or if food gets stuck for a moment. Don’t worry, It is not dangerous if it happens once in a while, but if it repeats often, you should check their health or water quality.
3. Gulping or Burping Sounds
Sometimes, you may hear a soft gulp or burp sound when the axolotl comes to the surface to breathe. Remember, axolotls can use both gills and lungs. When they take air in, a small sound can escape. It’s natural and nothing to worry about.
4. Movement Sounds
Not exactly “animal sounds,” but you may hear splashes, swishes, or taps when the axolotl moves fast in water or hits the glass by mistake. These are not vocal sounds but are still part of what you might hear from their tank.
Why Do Axolotls Make These Sounds?
- Breathing: When they use their lungs, a sound may escape.
- Feeding: Clicking or gulping when swallowing food.
- Stress: Rarely, strange noises can appear if they are stressed.
- Tank Environment: Sometimes bubbles, filters, or rocks can create sounds that feel like the axolotl is making them.
Can Axolotls Talk?
Now, here’s a fun question students ask me: “Sir, can axolotls talk like parrots?”
The answer is no. Axolotls don’t have vocal cords like humans or birds. They cannot talk, sing, or communicate with voices. Instead, they use body language. For example, when they swim fast, float, or wave their gills, they show if they are happy, scared, or stressed.
How to Tell if the Sound Is From Your Axolotl
Many times, new keepers get confused. Is the sound from the axolotl or the tank? Here’s how to check:
- Turn off the filter for a moment → If the noise stops, it was the filter.
- Observe while feeding → If clicks happen when the axolotl bites food, it’s normal.
- Check for bubbles → Popping bubbles can sound like clicks too.
Should You Worry About Axolotl Sounds?
Most sounds are harmless. But, if your axolotl makes unusual noises often, check:
- Water Quality: Bad water can stress them.
- Feeding Habits: Large food can make swallowing difficult.
- Health Issues: If you see floating, struggling, or gulping often, a vet visit may be needed.
My Personal Experience as a Teacher and Pet Owner
Let me tell you a small story. One of my students once said, “Sir, I think my axolotl is learning to talk because I heard a click every night.” We laughed together, but then I explained, it was the filter making bubbles! Later, when he listened carefully, he realized his axolotl was silent. This shows how easy it is to mix up tank noises with axolotl sounds.
Another time, I fed my axolotl a big worm, and suddenly I heard a “click-click.” At first, I was scared. But then I saw, it was just the axolotl trying to chew. So, don’t panic. Learn to observe calmly like a teacher doing an experiment.
Tips for a Peaceful Tank
- Keep the filter low and quiet.
- Feed axolotls soft and right-sized food.
- Keep water clean to avoid stress.
- Watch their behavior daily like a friend, not just a keeper.
Conclusion
So, what sounds do axolotls make? Most of the time, none. They are peaceful and silent creatures. But sometimes, you may hear clicks, gulps, or hiccup-like noises. These sounds are normal in small amounts and often linked to eating or breathing.
Remember, axolotls cannot talk, sing, or bark, but they have their own unique way of communicating through actions and behavior. As long as your axolotl looks healthy and happy, you don’t need to worry about rare sounds.
As I always tell my students: “Don’t just listen to your axolotl, watch it.” That’s how you really understand this amazing pet.
FAQs
Do axolotls bark or cry?
No, they don’t have vocal cords. They cannot bark, cry, or meow.
Why does my axolotl make clicking sounds?
Usually while eating or moving its jaws.
Should I be worried if I hear gulping often?
If it’s only sometimes, no problem. If it’s too frequent, check water quality or food size.
Can axolotls hear sounds from outside the tank?
Yes, they can feel vibrations and small sounds through water, but they don’t “listen” like humans.
Are axolotls completely silent pets?
Mostly yes, but sometimes you may hear soft clicks or gulps.
