Ghost crabs

As a sea turtler patroler, click HERE to read why I'm not fond of ghost crabs, even though they may be cute as they skitter across the sand and are an important part of a beach ecosystem. 

The only part of my patrols I dislike is when I discover a ghost crab has burrowed into a nest and we must carefully dig down, remove them, and fill in their tunnel.  Otherwise these predators will eat the sea turtle eggs or hatchlings, if they have emerged and are working their way up toward the surface.

Crabby

When I look at a ghost crab, I see how people began using the word 'crabby' for a grouchy or ill-tempered person. Just look at the frown!


I seeeeeee you. My new blog readers may not know that ghost crabs have 360 degree vision.

They are not one of my beloved beach creatures since they will burrow into a sea turtle's nest and feed on the hatchlings. It's an endless task to dig them out and fill in their holes around a nest--my least favorite part of patroling.

To learn more about ghost crabs, you may click HERE.

The last nest

The last turtle season of the year is ready to hatch. Due around October 20, unseasonably cool air seems to have slowed the process. Our fingers are crossed as we wait to see how many survive.


Click on the photo to enlarge it and see what does not belong in the nest.


Did you guess a ghost crab hole! Good for you. Ghost crabs, even small ones, are a bad thing to see near a sea turtle nest because they will dig into the nest to devour hatchlings. Large ghost crabs will also capture hatchlings as they are heading to the water and drag them into their burrow to feast on. This is why we so carefully guard our hatchlings and watch over them as they make their way to the Gulf of Mexico.