Endangered crayfish rescued from Australian bushfires return to creek

Eleven endangered alpine spiny crayfish have been successfully returned to their natural creek in Victoria following a rescue during the January 2026 bushfires. Scientists cared for the vulnerable crustaceans at the Snobs Creek conservation hatchery after perilous conditions threatened their habitat. Researchers plan to monitor local waterways and may implement future captive breeding programs to safeguard the species.