With their bright red and orange shells standing in stark contrast to their black lava rock habitats, the Red Rock Crab (or Sally Lightfoot Crab) is one of Galapagos’ most startling and agile sea creatures, known for their apparent ability to ‘walk on water’, and springtime sees hundreds of them scuttling along the seashore.
Practical info
When can Red Rock Crabs be spotted in Galapagos Islands?
Red Rock Crabs can be spotted throughout the year in the Galapagos Islands, but the best time to see them is from December to April. During this period, crabs can be seen sunbathing and scuttling around the rocky shores as it is the breeding season when the subtropical climate is warmest. Show more
What are the places to locate Red Rock Crabs in Galapagos Islands?
The rocky shores along the Pacific coast of the Galapagos Islands offer a habitat for Red Rock Crabs, and you can spot them in large numbers at the beaches, tide pools, and rock formations. Bartolome Island and Santa Cruz Island are renowned locations to see Red Rock Crabs. Show more
What is the average lifespan and size of Red Rock Crab?
Red Rock Crabs have a lifespan of about 3-4 years with several molts during this period. They tend to grow up to 15 cm (6 inches) at maximum, with males being slightly larger than females. Red Rock Crabs' lifespan and growth depend on food availability, temperature, and predators' presence in their habitat. Show more
How does the Red Rock Crab's shell aid them in their habitat?
Red Rock Crabs' bright red and orange shell works as a camouflage aiding them to blend with their surroundings of red and black lava rocks. The shell's color and the crab's agility make it complicated for predators, including birds and marine animals, to spot them, allowing the crabs to escape such attackers quickly. Show more
