Several areas in Suffolk have confirmed sightings of an invasive 'furry-clawed' crab species - but where?
The Natural History Museum has been recording confirmed sightings of the Chinese Mitten Crab, an invasive species that can damage riverbanks, compete with native species, block water outlets and damage fishing gear such as nets with their claws.
They are typically grey-green or brown in colour and have dense "fur" around white-tipped claws. Adults can grow as large as a dinner plate.
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Over 800 sightings of the crab species have been recorded across the UK's rivers and water systems, which is causing concern for the native wildlife.
Suffolk waterways have far fewer sightings than other counties, including Norfolk, but the hairy-clawed crabs have been spotted in Ixworth, and along the Rivers Orwell and Stour.
A Defra spokesman said that there is no legal fishery for the species, meaning if a Chinese mitten crab is caught it cannot be sold live for human consumption.
The Natural History Museum is continuing to collect the data and asks that anyone who captures anything that resembles a Chinese Miten Crab make a note of the location, take a photo and submit it using the online form on their website.
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