Crayfish, but is it real or is it a rubber lure???

bugman

July 26th, 2010 at 9:16 pm

Categories

(Never seen one like this)
Location: Charlottesville, VA
July 24, 2010 8:08 pm
Hello Bugman,
The bug seen in the picture below was seen while going for a hike on the Ragged Mountain trail in Charlottesville, VA. It was about 3-4 inches long, and was perched on a stick above the water.It did not move while I observed it, so I am not sure if it emerged from the water or how long it had been there. I go hiking in this area and in Shenandoah quite a bit, and while I have seen some odd insects, I have never seen one quite like this (if it even is an insect). Please enlighten me as to the nature of this strange beast. Thank you for your time, and please keep up this ”labor of love” for as long as you are able, it truly is an invaluable service.
Peter Oliver

crayfish simulacra peter 300x220 Crayfish, but is it real or is it a rubber lure???

Crayfish: Simulacra or the Real McCoy???

Hi Peter,
Our co-worker Amy told us to expect your email. This is a Crayfish, a freshwater crustacean that goes by some other local names, including Crawfish, Crawdad, and Clawfish, but our real question is whether it is a real dead Crayfish left behind by a fisherman, or perhaps a Crayfish Fishing Lure made of of rubber, which is our first choice. Crayfish are eagerly eaten by big fish like Largemouth Bass, and we suspect lures are readily available in shops catering to the needs of fishermen.

Ah, I see! No wonder it looks like a prop left over from the first Alien movie; I had a hunch it was an unnatural critter. Thanks for getting back to me so quickly, I think we met at Amy’s wedding but the whole trip is kind of blur. I appreciate your input, and will share it with my fellow hikers who were also puzzled by its presence. Thanks again!
Peter