Millions of crabs in mass migration on Christmas Island

Christmas Island’s mass red crab migration is one of the most incredible natural processes on Earth.

Every year, millions of these large crabs emerge from the forest and make their way to the ocean to breed, swarming across roads, streams, rocks and beaches.

The migration starts with the first rainfall of the wet season. This is usually in October or November, but can sometimes be as late as December or January.

Red crabs all over the island leave their homes at the same time and start marching towards the ocean to mate and spawn. Male crabs lead the migration and are joined by females along the way.

The larger male crabs usually arrive at the sea first but are soon outnumbered by females. After their arduous journey from the plateau, the crabs take a dip in the sea to replenish moisture.

Next, the male crabs retreat to the lower terraces of the island to dig burrows. The huge number of crabs means burrows are very close together, and males will often fight each other for possession of a burrow.

The female crabs then join the males on the terraces to mate in or near the burrows. After mating, male crabs have a second dip in the sea before starting their journey back home.
[https://parksaustralia.gov.au/christmas/discover/highlights/red-crab-migration/]
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