Crayfish, also known as crawdads or mudbugs, are small crustaceans that live in fresh water habitats. They look like miniature lobsters. Crayfish eyes are on stalks that allow crayfish to see a relatively large area around them. Crayfish are found in all sorts of colors and patterns, including browns, greens, yellows, blues and reds. However, color is not a primary distinguishing trait because color and pattern can change as the crayfish mature.
Predators
Crayfish are not often seen in the day time because they spend their time hiding from the many predators that call them food. When you find a crayfish out in the open they tend to move slowly around the bottom, but when in danger they can disappear in a blink of an eye. Crayfish have a powerful tail that allows them to move swiftly backwards through the water. They hide under rocks, logs and other structures, and can blend into their surroundings. They have many predators such as large fish, birds, otter, mink, and raccoons.
What do Crayfish eat?
Crayfish spend their time exploring the bottom of lakes, streams and ponds in search of food. They use tiny claws on their walking legs to probe for food, and move food up to their mouthparts. They often eat whatever is available: it is dead fish, algae, larger aquatic plants, leaf litter, worms, snails, insects, and fish eggs. Sometimes, when the opportunity arises, crayfish will attack and eat live fish that are in close proximity.
How to catch a crayfish
Finding and catching crayfish can be a lot of fun for adults and kids alike! The best time to find crayfish in open waters is at night time when they are not hiding from predators. Go out at night with a flash light and watch the bottom of the water move around with these small creatures! If you decide to go looking for crayfish during the day look under flat rocks where they may be hiding. Catching crawfish can be very exciting as you will come to see just how fast they can move through the water! Try moving steady and slow when lifting rocks and approaching crayfish with your hand or a net. Catching crayfish will be easier with a net and bait. Because crayfish use their antennae for scent in the water, bait such as dead fish, cat food or dog food can work well. If you decide to be daring and use your hands to catch a crayfish, watch out for their claws! Though they are not likely to draw blood they do give a good pinch! The best way to handle a crayfish is by holding its carapace behind the large claws.