White-clawed Crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes) from a tributary of Lough Derg, Co. Tipperary, yesterday. I recorded both larger individuals and small juveniles, providing encouraging evidence of recent recruitment. Ireland retains internationally important populations of this species, which is listed under Annex II of the EU Habitats Directive. However, its conservation status is now assessed as Unfavourable-Bad and deteriorating. Crayfish plague, a disease caused by the water mould Aphanomyces astaci, continues to spread and can eliminate entire local populations. Although some populations have persisted following outbreaks, there is little evidence of widespread recovery. Surviving populations such as this one are therefore particularly important. Protecting their habitats, improving water quality and preventing further disease spread are essential to the species’ future. Anyone moving between rivers and lakes should check, clean and thoroughly dry equipment to help protect these remaining populations.