Claws for Thought: The Plight of Our Native Crayfish
Date and time
Location
Online event
Join ecologist Ben Rushbrook to learn about our native white-clawed crayfish and the threats facing this endangered but fascinating species.
About this event
Peek beneath a rock in one of our local chalk streams, and you could be lucky enough to see a native white-clawed crayfish. These nocturnal crustaceans thrive in the mineral-rich waters, which they use to harden their tough exoskeletons.
Though an important and iconic chalk stream species, the white-clawed crayfish is sadly under pressure. Conservation has kept it from vanishing entirely, but the remaining populations are isolated and vulnerable. Today, the River Itchen tributaries contain some of the last strongholds for the species in Hampshire.
In this talk, ecologist Ben Rushbrook will explain the decline of this fascinating species, its current status in our area, and the efforts being taken to secure its future. Ben is a freshwater specialist with Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, and leads on white-clawed crayfish and southern damselfly work in Hampshire.
This event is part of Watercress and Winterbournes, a Landscape Partnership Scheme that is protecting, enhancing, and celebrating seven local chalk streams - learn more.
Image credit: Linda Pitkin/2020VISION