An invasive species of crayfish has been found in the wild for the first time in Kansas.
The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks funded a university project to sample crayfish populations in the state. Staff and researchers were surprised when they discovered Rusty Crayfish in McPherson Lake. Males and females were captured, confirming a breeding population. The Rusty Crayfish is larger and more aggressive than native species, and is known to cause ecological damage.
“The most likely cause of the Rusty Crayfish making its way into Kansas is through its use as fishing bait,” said KDWP Aquatic Nuisance Species coordinator, Chris Steffen. “This species is a prime example of the importance of always draining water from your boat, livewell, and bilge before leaving a waterbody, and of never moving bait from one waterbody to another. You just never know what could be hitchhiking a ride.”
If you’ll be around the water, you are asked to keep an eye out for this invasive species. Prominent features of the Rusty Crayfish are large black-tipped claws, and rust-colored spots on the shell. If you catch one, freeze it in a plastic bag with the date and location of capture, and call KDWP’s Emporia Research and Survey Office at (620) 342-0658.
