The Michigan Department of Natural Resources says an invasive species found in metro Detroit could bring big trouble to infrastructure.
The red swamp crayfish was recently found in two separate locations 130 miles apart.
The first find was in Vicksberg and the second in Novi.
The DNR says the animals bring danger to property near the water.
These crayfish are known to burrow holes in the water banks up to three feet deep.
"They really have the opportunity to affect structures, whether it be a dam structure or docks or something like that,” said Jim Francis with the Fisheries Division of the DNR.
The animals are native to Louisiana and the Gulf Coast and are often used in southern cuisine.
Francis says there is no telling how these crayfish ended up in Michigan.
"We just found out about it on Monday, so since Monday we're up to almost 200 crayfish,” he said as he brought up traps from a retention pond at 8 Mile and Haggerty Rd. in Novi.
He says that's a high number for such a small pond.
"We are seeing a size range of crayfish so seeing some little guys up to some big guys so what that indicates is that there is multiple year classes in here."
He says finding the crayfish is just the first step, stopping their spread could be even harder.
They replicate quickly, with females laying up to 600 eggs twice a year.
"They can take over a system very quickly."
The invasive species can survive in drought conditions and compete with our local Michigan crayfish.
The DNR says they were alerted to the crayfish in both locations by people who noticed the animals looked unusual. They ask the public to stay vigilant.
The crayfish are a deep red color with bright red raised spots and resemble mini lobsters.
"Really there is no native crayfish in Michigan that looks similar to this."
It is illegal to possess, import or sell red swamp crayfish in Michigan. If you see any the DNR wants you to take a picture, note the time, date and location then contact them at 269-685-6851 or herbsts1@michigan.gov.
Click here for more information on the red swamp crayfish.
