Freshwater plants and animals are threatening the Lake District’s wildlife. Floating pennywort, Australian swamp stonecrop, American signal crayfish and the killer shrimp are just a few of the species that will have devastating effects on our waters.
Why are invasive non-native species such a problem?
They are tough invaders, which can out-compete our native species
They grow rapidly and can often dominate a river, tarn or lake
Once established they are often very costly and complicated to kill or to control
They spread so easily you may not even know one is ‘hitchhiking’ on your kit!
Help native wildlife
Invasive non-native species of wildlife can hitchhike on equipment, footwear, clothing and boats. You may inadvertently spread the aliens even if you just go for a paddle! Every time you leave any water such as a river, tarn or lake:
Check - Clean - Dry
Check equipment/clothing for living organisms
Pay attention to damp hard to inspect areas
Clean and wash all equipment, footwear and clothes thoroughly
If you find organisms leave them at the water body or a hard surface to die out
Dry all equipment and clothing
Some species can live for many days in damp conditions
