Hens, Pistols, and Shedders

BerriesLobster eggs. A berried lobster is a female that is carrying fertilized eggs on the underside of her tail.

BugsLobster larvae. Also used more broadly to mean any lobsters.

ChickenA 1-pound lobster.

CockA male lobster.

CullA lobster with only one claw.

EggerA berried female lobster.

HenA female lobster.

KeepersLobsters of legal size, which is gauged by measuring the distance between the eye socket and the base of the tail. (In Maine, any lobster shorter than 3¼ inches or longer than 5 inches goes back into the water.)

KitchenThe outer, baited chamber of a lobster trap.

ParlorThe inner chamber of a lobster trap (and where the lobster is most likely to get stuck).

PistolA lobster without claws.

ShedderA newly molted lobster. Also called a rubber lobster or Jell-o lobster.

ShortsLobsters below the legal size. Also called snappers.