A Christmas (Island) Miracle: The Red Crab Migration

One of the most spectacular animal migrations you will ever see is the red crab migration, which occurs once a year on Christmas Island in Southeastern Asia . During the island’s rainy season (which tends to be during October or November), millions of red crabs move from the forests to the ocean shore for their annual mating season. In a synchronized motion, masses of bright red crabs migrate through the towns and amongst the locals, determined to reach shore and release their eggs into the sea—nothing gets in their way.

The locals have to put up with a strange crackling sound as the masses of waddling crabs move across the town. During peak migration, roads are closed with signs posting “Red Crab Crossing” because it’s impossible to drive on them without injuring or killing a significant portion. The crabs thrive in overcast and rainy conditions because it prevents them from drying out.

Photo source: Crazytopics.blogspot.com

Photo source: Environment.gov

Photo source: Crazytopics.blogspot.com

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