The Florida Horseshoe Crab Watch

The Florida Horseshoe Crab Watch is a combined effort between the Florida Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI) and University of Florida (UF) that trains volunteers to assist biologists in surveying, tagging and resighting Florida’s nesting horseshoe crab populations using a standardized scientific protocol. FWRI and volunteers have been running the program in Charlotte County since 2019, and Florida Sea Grant took over in 2023.

Horseshoe crabs come ashore to mate and nest at the high tides during full and new moons. Consequently, Florida Horseshoe Crab Watch Shore surveys take place during the day-time high tides at specific times during fall and spring. In-person training events are hosted annually ahead of fall surveys, but there is also a self-paced, online training module available. Both trainings cover introductory level information on horseshoe crabs, background on the Florida Horseshoe Crab Watch and the survey procedures that the program utilizes. However, in person training allows you to practice your survey skills with engaging models and allows you to meet other like-minded crab cronies you may want to partner with for surveys!

Subscribe to our email list to receive up-to-date information on the Florida Horseshoe Crab Watch.

annual updates

Training

In-person training will take place at the Punta Gorda Charlotte Library on September 21^st, 2024, from 10:00AM-1:00PM and will include a visit to the survey site at Ponce de Leon Park. Participants will be expected to provide their own transportation. Register here.

Surveys

Fall 2024 Surveys

Spring 2025 Surveys

Use the above Google Sheet links above to sign up for as many or as few survey times as you would like. There are no minimum or maximum requirements. Surveys typically go best with at least 3 people, but more can often be useful to answer questions from curious bystanders. We’d like to make sure we have at least one team present at each survey time, but don’t be afraid to join other groups or individuals. We encourage newcomers to team up with experienced crab cronies!

Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 surveys will take place exclusively at Ponce de Leon Park in Punta Gorda. This is possible because the Peace River Wildlife Center has graciously agreed to let the program store survey equipment at their facility. If you see Horseshoe Crabs anywhere else or while you are NOT completing a survey report them using this link.