The Blue Land Crab has a natural range from Bermuda, the Caribbean Sea, Texas and Southern Florida. Around Mariner Sands, these crabs occur in low-lying parts of coastal areas, but are rarely around more than 5 miles from the coast. 

They are easily identified by one claw that is larger than the others, by quite a bit. As a juvenile, the crab is a dark brown, purple or orange in color. As an adult, it is a bluish-gray color, though females may appear light gray or white.

As adults, Land Crabs are land-dwelling, returning to the sea only to drink or breed. They live in burrows several feet deep or at least to a level that will allow water to seep in for moisture. Giant Land Crabs are primarily vegetarians, preferring tender leaves, fruits, berries though occasionally enjoying beetles or other large insects.

At around 4 years of age, Land Crabs become ready to reproduce. Peak reproductive activity occurs during full moons in the summer. As the female lays her eggs, she carries the eggs in an ‘egg mass’ under her body for about 2 weeks. She then migrates to the ocean and releases the eggs in shallow inshore waters. This lasts from June to December.

Land Crabs are shy and pose no threat to humans unless caught or handled. They can inflict a ‘memorable pinch! These strange looking crabs are edible, but only the giant leg and leg meats should be consumed. Harvesting Land Crabs from July 1 - November 1 is illegal punishable by statue 68B-54.002. They can only be caught by hand or by net.

There is a concern from the FWC (Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission) that the Blue Land Crab population is declining due to overharvesting. The FWC has passed a rule to limit the intake of these crabs.

Having been around for thousands of years as Miami natives, the migration we still see today seems all the less unusual to the small, determined crab. Despite the large, hefty-looking claw, they are not predators and will run from what they may consider a danger.

If you do come across them on the road, it is suggested to avoid running over them. It is not uncommon to end up with a punctured tire if the claws hit just right, and with a diameter much larger than the average nail? Taking a detour is the best choice.

Floridians may begin seeing the massive migration as early as June, as spawning season and the female migration to the ocean lasts from June to December. This spectacle peaks in October and November- the perfect time to keep lookout for the blue wave of shells and claws.

2019 seemed to be an especially busy year for the crabs, a video from a Stuart resident going viral over news outlets. In the video, which can be viewed here, the small crustaceans are doing what they have done for thousands of years, going about their annual summer trip.