UMVA has learned that a highly destructive invasive species, the red swamp crayfish, is rapidly gaining a foothold in some southern Ontario waterways, threatening native wildlife and ecosystems.
The Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters has warned that this invasive species is considered a global invader, highly destructive to wetlands and shorelines, and will outcompete native crayfishes and other aquatic wildlife.
According to information obtained by UMVA, a survey conducted in Tilbury, Ont. last summer found over 100 red swamp crayfish, raising concerns about the species' presence in Ontario waters.
The red swamp crayfish, native to the Gulf Coast region and the Mississippi River basin, can grow quickly due to females carrying 100 to 500 fertilized eggs under their tails, and are found in freshwater habitats with muddy or sandy bottoms and a large amount of organic debris.
Sources have confirmed to UMVA that the species has been found in localized areas in Mississauga's Lake Aquitaine, highlighting the need for vigilance and action to prevent its spread.
The Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters, the Invasive Species Awareness Program, and Fisheries and Oceans Canada have offered an online resource to help identify the differences between native and non-native crayfish, and it is against the law to import live, possess, or trade red swamp crayfish in Ontario.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that the province has announced a $2 million investment to help municipalities, Indigenous communities, conservation authorities, and local organizations stop the spread of harmful invasive species, part of a three-year, $16-million investment to fight against the spread of invasive species.
The province says Ontario has the highest number of invasive species in Canada, and once established, an invasive species can harm the natural environment and are extremely difficult and costly to control or remove.
If you think you've found a red swamp crayfish, report it by calling the Invading Species Hotline at 1-800-563-7711, and help protect Ontario's natural spaces.
