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!

This year, in-person training will take place in 2024 at the Punta Gorda Charlotte Library on September 21^st from 10:00AM-1:00PM. Register here.

We are currently working with the City of Punta Gorda to move surveys from Bayshore Live Oak Park to Ponce de Leon Park. In the meantime, feel free to report any incidental horseshoe crab sightings using this link.

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

FAQ’S

Can I participate in surveys without attending in person training?

Although in-person training is highly recommended, the only training necessary to participate in Florida Horseshoe Crab Watch is the self-paced, online training module. Upon completion of the course, you are welcome to sign up for Florida Horseshoe Crab Watch Surveys anywhere in Florida!

Do I have to re-train if I have volunteered in the past?

The short answer is no, but we highly recommend refreshing your knowledge by either attending in-person training or revisiting the material from the online course.

Can I complete a survey on my own as a first-time volunteer?

All that is required to complete a Florida Horseshoe Crab Watch Survey is completing your preferred combination of in-person and online training. However, we have asked experienced participants to identify themselves on the survey sign-up sheet so that newer volunteers can connect with them if they so wish.

Should I log a horseshoe crab if I see one outside of official Florida Horseshoe Crab Watch surveys?

You should NOT log a horseshoe crab siting on the same form that you log your official Florida Horseshoe Crab Watch surveys. Florida Horseshoe Crab Watch is a study designed by the UF/IFAS Nature Coast Biological Station and FWC and implemented by you! As such, we must follow a strict set of procedures. But scientists love data, so if you see a horseshoe crab outside of a survey, log it here. This form may look like the one used during official surveys, but the data is used differently

Is there a minimum number of surveys I must commit to?

Attending training doesn’t commit you to any number of Florida Horseshoe Crab Watch Surveys. Sign up for as many or as few as you like, but keep in mind: the more you survey, the more likely you are to see a crab!