The species is known to feed on algae, insects and other crayfish, in addition to ‘vascular detritus’ – particulate organic carbon, but food choice is largely dependent on what is available in the surrounding environment. The crayfish are found in the southern quarter of British Columbia, ranging as far north as Okanagan Lake, west to Vancouver Island and east to the Kootenays. The signal crayfish can be found in both lakes and streams, with sightings reported in many interior freshwater lakes, rivers and streams. Juveniles prefer shallow waters while adults are often found in deeper parts of a lake or stream.