Broncos Fans Rescues Rare Orange Lobster for Aquarium

In an unexpected twist of fate, a rare orange lobster named Crush has taken up residence in the Downtown Aquarium in Denver, thanks to the vigilant efforts of Denver Broncos fans at a local Red Lobster restaurant in Pueblo, Colorado.

The unusual crustacean was first spotted by an attentive employee during the routine unpacking of a shipment of Maine lobsters. This particular Friday was not just any other; it revealed a striking orange lobster amid the usual shipment of crustaceans. The employee, who serves as both a dishwasher and the head biscuit maker, quickly alerted the restaurant management about the rare find.

The team decided to name the lobster «Crush» in homage to the iconic Denver Broncos’ defense known as the Orange Crush, which enjoyed dominance from 1976 until 1986. Kendra Kastendieck, the general manager of the Red Lobster, shared her enthusiasm about the naming process, noting that many of her staff were lifelong fans of the team. «Seeing that vibrant orange color made it clear that Crush would represent our team well,» she remarked. «Let’s hope our defensive line can reclaim that glory in the coming seasons!»

After realizing the rarity of the lobster, Kastendieck sought out local aquariums and zoos capable of providing a suitable home for Crush. Unfortunately, when the Pueblo Zoo indicated they were unable to accept the lobster, she reached out to the nearby Downtown Aquarium, which expressed immediate interest.

Kastendieck took it upon herself to ensure Crush’s safe transport to the aquarium. She packed the orange lobster in a plastic foam container with ice packs, preserving the delicate creature during the journey. On Wednesday, she delivered Crush to the Downtown Aquarium, where staff were more than excited to welcome the lobster.

Upon arrival, the aquarium team set up a quarantine tank specifically for Crush. According to Kastendieck, the lobster quickly demonstrated his spirited nature, promptly exploring his new environment. “He was very active right off the bat, moving around and investigating his new surroundings,” she revealed, adding that the staff had prepared an enriching environment for Crush.

To further engage him, the aquarium placed two generations of Denver Broncos helmets in the tank, allowing Crush to crawl over them and interact playfully. This thoughtful addition illustrates not only the fans’ commitment but also the aquarium’s intention to create a stimulating habitat for the rare lobster.

Crush is currently undergoing a veterinary examination and will spend 30 days in quarantine before becoming part of the ‘Lurks’ exhibit at the aquarium. This exhibit houses various species native to the cold waters of the North Atlantic Ocean, presenting a fitting home for this unique lobster.

Ryan Herman, the general curator of the Downtown Aquarium, expressed excitement regarding the opportunity to showcase this extraordinary animal to the public. “We are thrilled to share this rare and exceptional lobster with our community and all visitors to Colorado,” he stated in a recent announcement.

The orange lobster that became the talk of the town was sent to the Colorado restaurant from a supplier based in Tennessee. It was caught off the Canadian coast, although specifics regarding the exact location remain undisclosed. Genetic mutations can result in lobsters displaying unusual colors, including orange, blue, and yellow, which are a rare occurrence in the crustacean world.

This isn’t the first time the Downtown Aquarium has played host to an orange lobster; they have had one previously. However, Crush promises to add to the diversity of over 700 species the aquarium currently has on display, along with an array of marine life including a stingray reef and three Sumatran tigers.

The story of Crush serves not only as a testament to the affectionate spirit of local sports fans but also showcases the importance of preserving and caring for rare animals that often go unnoticed.