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
As the male and female crabs reach the shore, mating begins. The males dig little holes and the females join them. The males retreat and head back to land while the females release their fertilized eggs into the sea.
Once the eggs hatch in the ocean and the babies develop a little, they leave the ocean and make their way toward the forest. They aren’t seen too much during the first few years of life, but if you do come across them, it sometimes looks like a giant red blanket covering the forest floor.
Photo source: Crazytopics.blogspot.com
Many tourists flock to Christmas Island during the months of October and November to witness this amazing migration. In this brief time, the island is magically transformed as crabs take over island life, interrupting everything from driving to golf games.
Check out this cool video about the migration’s impact on Christmas Island. You won’t believe what the locals have to put up with:
Unfortunately, the red crab population is being significantly reduced because of an invasive species called yellow crazy ants. An article in the Telegraph states that the ants have almost halved the number of red crabs on the island. Though experts are working on solutions, nothing has squashed the problem permanently, so head to Christmas Island to see the migration while you can. The island’s official Web site lists the best travel days to witness the phenomenon.
Ecologists and nature enthusiasts agree that the red crab migration is one of the most amazing spectacles in all of nature.