This species is Ocypode quadrata, also commonly known as the Atlantic Ghost Crab, and though it is the most common crab on the Atlantic Coast Line it is becoming more and more of an uncommon sight. These guys are nocturnal so you can find these quick scuttling guys typically at night passed 8:00 (how they tell time I haven't a clue), but they do occasionally make daytime appearances. They come out of their sandy burrows almost nightly to return to the ocean to moisten their gills and nibble some food. They are omnivores and detritivores meaning they eat pretty much anything even if it is decaying matter. Unfortunately, their populations have decreased directly due to human encroachment. They are severely impacted on heavily frequented beaches because they are usually either trampled to death by either humans or vehicles. Our presence being even close to them causes a decline in their habitat suitability by throwing off their reproduction cycle, food supply, compressing sand which they make their burrows, and light pollution. -Damon Like and follow us for more! #crab #crabs #ghostcrab #beach #wildlife #wildlifephotography #fauna #outdoorsphotography #animalsofinstagram #animallover #animals #animal #animalphotography #nature #naturelover #naturelovers #outdoors #outdoorphotography #naturephotography (at Clearwater Beach) https://www.instagram.com/p/CUzsfASFvSC/?utm_medium=tumblr
