A giant lobster reckoned to be in its 80s is to be pensioned off to Lahinch Seaworld and Leisure Centre after evading the clutches of fishermen off the Cliffs of Moher since the 1920s.
The lobster, weighing over 10lb, was caught by P.J. and Jimmy Garrihy off the world-renowned cliffs in north Clare some weeks ago. Finding itself trapped in a lobster pot, the creature was looking forward to a short-lived future, destined for the export market and some continental dinner plates.
However, following an intervention by Mr Donie Garrihy who bought it from his brothers for £93, the lobster is now the star attraction of the Aquarium at Lahinch Seaworld.
Donie estimates that there are over 1,500 lobster pots in the waters around the Cliffs of Moher. "I am amazed that it has survived so long. I'm delighted to hear that it is healthy," he said.
Aquarist Ms Joanne Flaherty said the lobster was in great condition. "To see one that size is incredible. We needed two people to lift him from the van into the centre."
She estimates that the lobster is in his 70s or 80s (lobsters can live to be 100). The centre plans to hold a competition among local school children to name it. In the meantime it is being fed on a diet of squid and sprat, with the odd mussel thrown in.
In the next few days the centre plans to put the lobster in a display tank. It is to remain by itself, as captive lobsters are known to become cannibalistic. According to Joanne, they will consider returning the lobster to the waters in the next few months. Each year the centre releases 20 to 30 juvenile lobsters as part of its conservation programme.
Contact number
Readers who want to contact this column can leave messages by phoning (01) 6707711, ext 6544 emulqueen@irish-times.ie
