Why do Australians call lobsters "crayfish"?
Saltwater Lobsters are generally much larger than freshwater crayfish.
In Australia the term “crayfish” or “cray” commonly refers to a saltwater spiny lobster, which is native to southern Oceania. Freshwater species, on the other hand, are usually called yabbies , borrowing from Indigenous Australian language.
True lobsters (found in the Northern Hemisphere) have large claws, but Australian spiny lobsters do not. Instead, they have long antennae, which makes them resemble large crayfish.
Because Australia’s native lobsters lack claws, early European settlers thought they looked more like the freshwater crayfish they knew, so the name “crayfish” stuck.
What freshwater crayfish species are found in Burnie?
The Giant Freshwater Lobster (Astacopsis gouldi) is Tasmania’s largest freshwater crayfish also found Burnie and across parts of northern Tasmania, but the small burrowing species in Burnie are dominated by Engaeus members,Notable species recorded locally include:
- Engaeus yabbimunna — Burnie Burrowing Crayfish (medium, ~6 cm).
- Engaeus leptorhynchus — often called the White-spired Crayfish.
- Engaeus lyelli — sometimes referred to as the Burnie Plains Crayfish.
- Engaeus spinicaudatus — Burnie Marsh Crayfish (local records exist).
- Engaeus trijunctus — Three Rivers Crayfish (local records exist).
Where in Burnie do freshwater crayfish live?
Known localities (urban and nearby) with records of freshwater crayfish include:
- Burnie Park
- Shorewell Creek
- Romaine Creek
- Eastern arm of Cooee Creek (urban Burnie)
- Seabrook
- Camp Creek
- Distillery Creek
- A small tributary of the Cam River
Many Engaeus live in burrows in creek and wetland banks rather than in open water, look for burrow chimneys and moist banks rather than free-swimming animals.
When is the best time to view them?
Crayfish are most active in Tasmania’s warmer months (roughly December–February). Local weather and ground moisture will affect activity, they are easier to spot after rain or where burrow entrances and chimneys are visible.
If visiting natural areas, follow Leave No Trace principles and any local signage or council rules, the following items are recomended
- Sturdy, water-resistant footwear and clothing suitable for creek banks.
- A camera with a macro or zoom option as crustaceans are small and shy.
- Hand sanitizer and a bag for any litter help keep sites clean.
- Respect wildlife: do not dig up burrows, remove animals, or disturb habitat.
Do not handle, move or attempt to relocate burrowing crayfish. If you find an injured animal or a site under immediate threat, contact the relevant local authority or conservation group for advice.
Which burrowing crayfish are threatened?
Several Engaeus species recorded in the Burnie area have been described in conservation discussions and are considered at risk in parts of their ranges. Locally cited species of conservation concern include:
- Engaeus yabbimunna — Burnie Burrowing Crayfish
- Engaeus leptorhynchus
- Engaeus lyelli
- Engaeus trijunctus
Conservation measures commonly used in the region include:
- Water quality monitoring and riparian management.
- Habitat restoration and weed control around creeks and wetlands.
- Public education, signage and community volunteer programs.
- Surveying and targeted research to identify local populations and threats.
Local and regional groups involved in freshwater and riparian habitat work include:
- Friends of Fernglade (local volunteers/groups)
- Cradle Coast Natural Resource Management NRM
- Tasmanian Parks & Wildlife and state environmental agencies
- Council and community groups
If you want to get involved or report sightings, these groups are good starting points. They often run restoration and monitoring activities.
Where can I get the most up-to-date information?
For current conservation status, permits, and information:
- Check Tasmanian Government environment pages (DPIPWE / Parks & Wildlife).
- Contact Cradle Coast NRM for local programs and sightings.
- Contact Burnie City Council for access, park rules and local site information.