Strict rules exist around the trapping and disposing of non-native crayfish, and specific traps are needed to ensure the safety of other animals such as otters and voles.

Licences to trap non-native crayfish, as well as information, can be supplied by the Environment Agency.
Rural PCSO Chris Dell said: “You need to apply for a license from the EA to trap non-native crayfish. The good news is that a license is free.”

A Surrey Police spokesperson explained: “The Signal Crayfish was introduced from America in the 1970s, but unfortunately they are carriers of crayfish plague and have competed with our native white-claw crayfish for food and habitat, with a result very similar to the Grey Squirrel’s impact on the Red Squirrel population.

“As well as spreading disease, the Signal crayfish burrow into river banks causing erosion and displacement of water voles. They also deplete fish stocks by feasting of fish eggs and juvenile fish.”

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