Christmas Island Red Crab Migration
Red Crab Migration
Each year tens of millions of red crabs stream from the rainforest to the coast to spawn, covering roads and beaches. It is considered one of the world’s natural wonders.
The Christmas Island red crab is an endemic species that normally lives among fallen leaves in the rainforest. When the wet season arrives, tens of millions of adult crabs migrate together toward the sea. Around the dawn high tide near the last quarter moon, they release their eggs into the ocean. About a month later, the young crabs return to the forest en masse. During the migration, parts of the island’s roads are closed, and crab bridges and fences are set up. The places where you are most likely to see them are Drumsite, the Flying Fish Cove area, and Ethel Beach. Check the annual forecast published by Parks Australia for dates. When driving, slow down and detour around the crabs, and never run them over.
Opening hours
Seasonal natural phenomenon (mostly Oct–Dec)
Nearby sights
- Flying Fish Cove
- Territory Day Park
- Tai Jin House
- Christmas Island National Park
- The Grotto
- Lily Beach
- Margaret Knoll Lookout
- Ethel Beach