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Sightings of invasive Chinese mitten crab have been confirmed in the Willamette River near Portland, Ore.

This marks the second sighting of the "hairy" crabs in the state this year, raising concerns about the species establishing a local population that could affect the native ecosystem

Officials urge the public to report sightings of the invasive Chinese mitten crab as biologists expand monitoring in Oregon

The Chinese mitten crab — identifiable by its furry, mitten-like claws, four side spines, and a notch between the eyes — was found in a river near Portland, Ore., wildlife officials confirmed.

According to a press release from the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW) obtained by PEOPLE, the medium-sized crab, which is not native to the United States, is typic

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