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Rusty Crayfish Threatens Colorado Ecosystems: Second Sighting Confirmed

5/6/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The invasive rusty crayfish has been spotted in the West Fork Little Thompson River, marking a concerning development for Colorado's ecosystems. Confirmed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife on May 2, 2025, this aggressive species, originally from the Ohio River Basin, poses a significant threat by outcompeting native crayfish for vital resources. It's only the second sighting of this species east of the Continental Divide.

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Story summary

The invasive rusty crayfish has been spotted in the West Fork Little Thompson River, marking a concerning development for Colorado's ecosystems. Confirmed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife on May 2, 2025, this aggressive species, originally from the Ohio River Basin, poses a significant threat by outcompeting native crayfish for vital resources. It's only the second sighting of this species east of the Continental Divide.