When Is the Best Time
Millions of mainly red-black and yellow crabs migrate between Playa Larga and Playa Giron from their burrows in the forests to the Bay of Pigs. Playa Larga is a two-hour drive south of Havanna.
After the mating season, these land crabs have to spawn or release their eggs into the sea-
The best time to witness millions of crabs during the crab migration is in April. However, you may see crabs with eggs under the belly also in May and some until June.
Best Months to Visit
Location and Tips
In April female land crabs start to migrate from forests to the sea to release their eggs. Land crabs lost the ability to swim. When a wave hits them they drown.
Masses of black-red, yellow, and orange crabs are heading to the sea and back. They need to cross the road and car drivers don't care but get "punished" with flat tires from their pincers. Often roads are coated with smashed crabs. In April the land crabs are smaller, coloured red and orange. In June the crab species was much bigger and grey and less in numbers.
The majority of the crab larvae never reaches the island's forests. It's a feast for fish and rays. Also, the residents like the crab meat and hunt some for themselves.
My friend Chris took most of the pictures and footage in April. I visited Playa Larga in February and June. In February we didn't spot any crab in June some but a bigger species.
If you wish to use any of these pictures please, get in contact with me.
