Conserving the native white-clawed crayfish

A vital part of the wetland ecosystem

In conservation terms, the white-clawed crayfish is on a par with tigers and rhinos - a globally-endangered species battling for survival. Although less well-known than the two mammals, their loss would be equally as devastating. They are an important part of the food chain for otters, fish and birds, and their disappearance would have a severe impact on the entire wetland ecosystem.

The biggest threat to white-clawed crayfish is crayfish plague, a fatal disease carried by foreign crayfish, who first appeared in our watercourses in the 70s. In Staffordshire, the plague has wiped out millions of white-clawed crayfish. 

You can find out more about White-clawed crayfish here 

Crayfish advice

Download our white-clawed crayfish booklets below for more information