Do Axolotls Make Noise?

Abdul Wasay Khatri | Administrator

Last updated: 9 January, 2026

Axolotls are essentially silent creatures and do not produce intentional vocalizations or sounds. They lack vocal cords and the anatomical structures necessary to create deliberate noises like croaking, chirping, or calling. However, axolotl owners may occasionally hear subtle sounds coming from their tanks these are typically incidental noises created during normal behaviors rather than true vocalizations. You might hear faint clicking sounds when they snap at food, soft gulping noises when they swallow air at the surface, or gentle splashing when they move quickly through water.

Understanding the Sounds You Might Hear

While axolotls themselves don’t vocalize, certain behaviors create audible byproducts that might surprise new owners. The most common sound is a quiet “click” or “snap” that occurs during feeding. When an axolotl strikes at prey, their rapid jaw closure creates a small suction effect that sometimes produces this clicking noise. It’s more noticeable during hand-feeding sessions when you’re close to the tank and the axolotl is actively hunting.

Another sound axolotl owners report is a soft gulping or burping noise. Axolotls occasionally swim to the water’s surface to gulp air, which they use to adjust their buoyancy and help them float or sink as needed. This air intake and subsequent release can create gentle popping or gurgling sounds. While this behavior is normal in moderation, excessive surface gulping may indicate water quality problems or insufficient oxygen levels in the tank, requiring investigation.

You might also notice splashing sounds when your axolotl moves suddenly or swims energetically, particularly during feeding time or nighttime exploration. These splashes are purely mechanical the result of water displacement and don’t represent any form of communication or vocalization.

Some owners describe hearing what sounds like hiccups or spasms. These are typically related to digestive processes or gill movements and are completely normal physiological functions rather than intentional sound production.

Why Silence Makes Sense for Axolotls

The silent nature of axolotls aligns perfectly with their evolutionary biology and lifestyle. As primarily solitary, nocturnal hunters, axolotls have never developed the need for vocal communication. Unlike frogs and toads that call to attract mates or establish territory, axolotls rely on chemical signals (pheromones) and visual/tactile cues for reproduction and social interaction.

Their aquatic lifestyle also plays a role. Sound travels differently underwater than in air, and many aquatic creatures use other sensory methods for communication. Axolotls have a well-developed lateral line system a series of sensory organs running along their body that detect vibrations, water pressure changes, and movement. This system allows them to navigate, hunt, and sense their environment without needing to produce or interpret complex sounds.

Additionally, being silent offers survival advantages. In their natural habitat, making noise could attract predators. Their stealthy, quiet hunting approach allows them to ambush prey effectively without alerting potential meals to their presence.

The lack of vocalization also means axolotls make excellent pets for people sensitive to noise or living in apartments where sound carries. Unlike dogs, cats, birds, or even many fish species that may splash loudly, axolotls are among the quietest pets available.

Quick FAQ

What does it mean if I hear gurgling from my axolotl tank?
Gurgling usually comes from filter equipment, air stones, or your axolotl gulping air at the surface. Check that your filter isn’t too loud and ensure water quality is optimal if surface breathing is frequent.

Is it normal to hear nothing from my axolotl?
Absolutely! Complete silence is perfectly normal and expected. Axolotls are naturally quiet animals, and you may go weeks or months without hearing any sounds from them at all.

Can axolotls hear sounds from outside their tank?
While they lack external ears, axolotls can detect vibrations and low-frequency sounds through their lateral line system. Loud noises or tapping on the tank can startle them and should be avoided.

Do axolotls communicate with each other?
Not through sound. When housed together, axolotls communicate primarily through body language, physical contact, and chemical signals released into the water, especially during breeding behavior.

Should I be concerned if my axolotl suddenly starts making sounds?
Increased surface gulping or unusual movements accompanied by sounds might indicate respiratory distress or water quality issues. Test your water parameters and observe for other signs of illness like lethargy or loss of appetite.

Abdul Wasay Khatri
Administrator
Abdul Wasay is the founder and lead author of Axolotl Portal, a trusted site for axolotl care. He spent almost nine months learning about axolotls, including their tanks, feeding, water care, and common health problems. His knowledge comes from trusted vets, research, and real experience from long term axolotl owners. All Posts by