Washington Warning Of Mitten Crabs

Washington wildlife officials are cracking down on illegal mitten crab trafficking — an invasive species that could threaten the state’s salmon and waterways.  A Washington resident has pleaded guilty to selling live mitten crabs to Fish and Wildlife officers.

“Mitten crabs pose a danger to Washington’s economy and ecosystem, particularly our salmon populations. Trafficking in these invasive species is harmful and illegal,” said Attorney General Nick Brown. “We will continue to work closely with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife to protect our ecosystems and enforce the law.”

The crabs can reproduce by the hundreds of thousands, prey on native fish eggs and shellfish, and compete with native species for food and habitat. Their burrowing can also damage stream banks and levees.  Mitten crabs aren’t known to be established in Washington, but they’ve recently been detected in the Lower Columbia and Willamette rivers.

“Preventing the introduction of invasive species requires more than identifying them after they become established; it requires stopping illegal pathways before they can lead to an introduction,” said Brad Rhoden, WDFW Police Captain. “Through this investigation, our officers were able to identify and disrupt the illegal sale of mitten crabs, preventing a potential pathway to release and establishment in Washington. Enforcement of the state’s invasive species laws is an important part of protecting our natural resources, with the ever-present online opportunity to traffic plants or animals, our officers remain committed to working with our partners to stop the illegal movement of invasive species.”

Officials say: don’t buy, possess or release them and report all sightings to WDFW. 

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