Over 2,000 kind-hearted crabs die tragically—people are heartbroken over their protection efforts!

▲ Roadkill of land crabs is a common sight on Green Island’s roads. Last month, over 2,000 crab carcasses were found, causing great distress among conservation researchers. (Photo provided by Lü Jinyu)

Reported by Chen Ziying / Taipei

The protection of land crabs on Green Island has always been a key issue for conservationists. In particular, the island’s common “Ochthoplax luteipes” (a species of land crab) breeds between July and October each year, during which large numbers of them migrate to the seaside to lay eggs. Unfortunately, this period also coincides with Green Island’s peak tourist season, putting these tiny creatures’ lives in grave danger.In July, reports even emerged of over 2,000 crabs being run over in a single day, leaving netizens expressing deep sorrow.Local researchers on Green Island launched a “Crab Crossing Patrol” campaign last month, setting up road barriers and helping crabs carrying eggs safely cross the roads, all to ensure they can complete their breeding cycle without harm. Their efforts have touched many netizens and visitors.


▲ The Ochthoplax luteipes is the most commonly seen land crab species on Green Island. (Photo by reporter Chen Ziying)

Lü Jinyu, a conservationist from Taitung also known as “Mountain Boar Brother,” said that instances of crabs being run over are frequently seen on the island, especially during the breeding season from July to October, when it is at its worst. The “Crab Crossing Patrol,” initiated by local researchers, is now in its second month, but due to a shortage of volunteers last month, over 2,000 pregnant female crabs were still killed on the roads. This month, nearly 30 ecologists have joined the effort, hoping to “save even more.”

   
▲ Pregnant crabs carrying eggs often perish under vehicle tires. (Photo provided by Lü Jinyu)

Lü Jinyu said, “By personally taking part in helping crabs cross the roads, we hope to truly reduce the number of roadkill incidents. Because once they step onto the road, they’re in danger. That’s why we’ve set up safety barriers to provide them with a protected path, while our researchers also stand guard and observe alongside.” He expressed hope that more people will join the effort to protect the crabs and ensure their right to survive. Meanwhile, Taitung County Government and the Eastern National Scenic Area Administration are also discussing the crisis facing the island’s land crabs, with hopes of developing solutions to ease the conflict between humans and crabs on the roads.