Raleigh, NC — State wildlife officials say a non‑native crab species is appearing more frequently along the North Carolina coast, and they are asking residents to report any sightings as biologists work to determine how far the animals have spread.
The blue land crab (Cardisoma guanhumi) is normally found from Brazil through South Florida. According to the NC Division of Marine Fisheries, the species was first confirmed in North Carolina in 2023, and the agency has now documented 23 confirmed sightings and 34 unconfirmed reports statewide. Most recent confirmations have come from Emerald Isle.
NC Wildlife Resources Commission biologists say the species does not belong in North Carolina’s ecosystem. Its historic northern limit on the Atlantic coast is Vero Beach, Florida, meaning any appearance in the Carolinas is outside its natural range.
Wildlife officials say the crabs can dig burrows up to six feet deep, which may destabilize soil, landscaped areas, and embankments. The ecological impact in North Carolina is still being studied, and agencies are monitoring whether the species is expanding naturally or arriving through human transport.
The crabs vary widely in color, blue‑gray, white, ash‑gray, orange, brown, and purple and are most often seen after heavy rains when they emerge from underground burrows.
NCWRC and DMF are asking residents to report sightings and include a clear photo and exact location. Reports help biologists track the species’ spread and evaluate potential impacts on native wildlife.
Residents who encounter a blue land crab may submit a sighting through the state’s reporting form. Click here to report sightings
For additional information, residents may contact the N.C. Division of Marine Fisheries at 252.726.7021 or visit the NC Wildlife Resources Commission’s non‑native species reporting page.
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