How Can I Get Rid Of Crawdads In My Yard?
Lynn Asked
How can I get rid of crawdads in my yard?
The Gardener’s Answer
Hello, Lynn: In this country there are several species of crayfish, commonly referred to as crawdads or crawfish. They are freshwater crustaceans that feed on decaying material. They can be very unsightly in our gardens. It is unusual to find them where there is no water source. They dig/burrow near streams, ponds, and banks, creating chimneys in the lawn and landscape. Do you have a stream or creek on your property? They need the right environment to survive in and if you do have a water source on your property, it is going to be a task to get rid of them. Eliminating them from the garden can be difficult since there is no general purpose pesticide for crayfish control. Trapping them is one option. Fish, chicken, and other meats are used for baiting. They are an important part of the food chain but can be a nuisance if they are leaving holes/piles in your yard. They do make great bait for fishing–just watch out for their pinchers!
