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.

Participation information

Sign Up

We use POINT Volunteer Management Database to manage volunteer participation. Use the embedded link to view opportunities or create a profile if you have not already.

Support

Chad Lyman is the official volunteer coordinator for the Florida Horseshoe Crab Watch in Charlotte County. He can be reached at (941) 830-4888 or horseshoechad@gmail.com with any questions about the program.

Inexperienced volunteers may be interested in an extra level of support the first few surveys they complete. When signing up for events on POINT, look out for volunteers identified as “Crab Coaches” in their profile pictures!

Surveys

Beach nesting surveys take place 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.