And something you don’t see every day
Increase in spider crab gatherings along Cornwall’s coast this summer as extraordinary creatures migrate in their thousands - Cornwall Wildlife Trust
Cornwall Wildlife Trust debunks myth that spider crabs are venomous and urges members of the public to see the underwater spectacle in action this August.
Beachgoers are being encouraged to look out for large groups of spider crabs along Cornwall’s coastline during the summer holidays amid increasing reports of mass gatherings filmed just metres away from the shore.
The crustaceans have been spotted carpeting the ocean floor at multiple popular tourist destinations in recent weeks.
The spider crab aggregations – or gatherings - used to be rare to see in UK waters, but Cornwall Wildlife Trust’s marine experts have described this summer as being “unusually spectacular” for sightings.
Matt Slater, Marine Conservation Officer at Cornwall Wildlife Trust, said: “I’ve spent my whole career trying to get people to appreciate amazing marine animals like spider crabs. Reports of them being venomous are simply untrue and could damage their reputation. These animals are truly unique and are completely harmless to humans. Despite the many gatherings we’ve seen in places like St Ives, it’s not that common to witness this kind of behaviour. I saw it for the first time in Falmouth last year and it was an unbelievable experience! Please go out, enjoy our coastline responsibly and admire these sensational spider crab displays should you be so lucky to see one.”
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Posted On: 09/08/2022