Actually I think it is a mudpuppy, although they look very similar, Axolotls are pretty rare to find in the wild... Then again the show is probably being symbolic because they ver y clearly put the salamander in the beginning footage. Axolotls are known for their incredible ability to regenerate almost any part of their body (limbs , tails, bones, etc) so it's probably hinting at vampires having a similar ability. (Wow I just realized how old this post is... well, better late than never, I guess!)
