Fauna
Invertebrate

White-clawed Crayfish

Austropotamobius pallipes

Also known as Atlantic Stream Crayfish, White-foot Crayfish

White-clawed crayfish hide beneath stones and tree roots in clean, mineral-rich streams, emerging at night to forage. As the only native crayfish in the British Isles, they play a vital role in freshwater ecosystems by grazing on algae and recycling organic detritus. Their populations have plummeted across Europe due to habitat loss and the spread of crayfish plague carried by introduced species.

FreshwaterNocturnal
White-clawed Crayfish reference
David Gerke / CC BY-SA 3.0 · cc-by-sa
—observations
—countries
—peak records
EndangeredConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXEndangeredRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyAquatic insects, Algae, Fallen leaves
Predators
  • Otters
  • Herons
  • Brown trout
ThreatsCrayfish plague, pollution, habitat degradation, and competition from invasive signal crayfish
HabitatsClean, alkaline streams, rivers, lakes, and water-filled quarries with abundant crevices
Life spanUp to 10 to 12 years
Classification
  1. FamilyAstacidae
  2. SpeciesAustropotamobius pallipes
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Can pinch with claws if handled; observe without touching to protect this endangered species.
What to notice
Look for the distinctive pale or white underside of the claws, contrasting with a dull olive-brown body.
Support conservation
Avoid handling entirely and practice strict biosecurity by cleaning, draining, and drying all footwear and equipment after visiting their habitats.
Responsible observation
  • Look under stones: Search gently in shallow, clear streams during the day, always replacing overturned rocks exactly as found.
  • Use a torch: Spot them active at night by shining a flashlight into quiet pools and stream margins.
  • Clean your gear: Disinfect all footwear and pond-dipping equipment before and after visiting waterways to prevent spreading disease.
Related species
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