Delaware Bay Horseshoe Crab Spawning Survey
Since 1990, surveys have been conducted of horseshoe crabs spawning in Delaware Bay. The data collected by volunteers during these surveys is key for scientists in monitoring changes in numbers of spawning crabs in the Bay. Now, every spring on several peak spawning days, volunteers donate their time to count crabs on key beaches in Delaware and in New Jersey. Delaware’s well-trained and enthusiastic volunteers have made this program one of the most successful volunteer-based wildlife surveys in the country.
The Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve (DNERR) coordinates the survey on three Delaware Bay beaches each spring (Kitts Hummock, Ted Harvey Wildlife Area, North Bowers Beach). Planning for the Annual Baywide Horseshoe Crab Spawning Survey begins in March of each year seeking volunteers to assist with the annual baywide horseshoe crab spawning survey that takes place in May and June. Volunteers are required to be trained in survey protocols. This is a wonderful way to see this natural spectacle on the Delaware Bay and we invite anyone who is interested in this fascinating creature to participate!
For general information about the Horseshoe Crab spawning surveys, or to assist with one of the other beaches, please visit the main Delaware Bay Horseshoe Crab Spawning Survey website.
DNERR staff holds two volunteer training sessions each year in the early spring for anyone interested in assisting with the Horseshoe Crab Spawning survey at the St. Jones Reserve, 818 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. All new volunteers are required to attend a training session and past participants are strongly encouraged to attend.
Volunteers learn how to conduct the survey, how to properly record data and how to distinguish between male and female horseshoe crabs. The training also highlights the results of horseshoe crab survey data and how it is being used.
In addition, training participants will have first preference for beach and date signups for the DNERR-coordinated beaches. Participants who are interested in other Delaware Bay beaches not coordinated by the DNERR are welcome to attend the training and will be referred to the appropriate beach leader for further information. Volunteers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Please email the Horseshoe Crab Spawning Survey Coordinators at DNERRhsc@gmail.com, or call (302) 739-NERR for more information.
Information for Registered 2013 Horseshoe Crab Spawning Survey Volunteers:
2013 Horseshoe Crab Spawning Survey Dates
Sign-ups for survey dates are now closed. Survey coordinators may periodically post additional dates that we need extra volunteers.
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Tuesday, May 7 |
8:56 p.m. |
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Thursday, May 9 |
10:14 p.m. |
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Saturday, May 11 |
11:27 p.m. |
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Thursday, May 23 |
8:53 p.m. |
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Saturday, May 25 |
10:36 p.m. |
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Tuesday, May 28 |
12:21 a.m. (arrive at Reserve Monday Night 5/27) |
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Thursday, June 6 |
9:11 p.m. |
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Saturday, June 8 |
10:26 p.m. |
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Monday, June 10 |
11:40 p.m. |
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Friday, June 21 |
8:31 p.m. |
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Sunday, June 23 |
10:20 p.m. |
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Wednesday, June 26 |
12:06 a.m. (arrive at Reserve Tuesday Night 6/25) |
*Times are for beaches coordinated by the Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve only.
When you are scheduled to volunteer, please remember:
- Be sure to check your email! We send out reminder notices with your survey date, time of arrival at the St. Jones Reserve, and your beach assignment a few days before you are scheduled to help out.
- Volunteers must arrive at the St. Jones Reserve at least one hour prior to the time of high tide. Click here for directions to the St. Jones Reserve
- The crabs don’t mind a little rain or wind and we go out in all kinds of weather. Wear appropriate clothing for weather and wet conditions at the water’s edge. Insect repellant may be needed. Closed toe shoes are required to be worn. We recommend wearing waterproof boots, water shoes, or old sneakers. Do not wear flip flops or tevas.
- If you have a questions about the dates you are schedule to volunteer, or if you need to cancel, please contact the survey coordinators at DNERRhsc@gmail.com or 302-739-6377. If you need to cancel, please contact us as soon as possible so that we can try to find someone to fill your spot.
- We post updates about horseshoe crab sightings and photos from our survey nights on our DNERR facebook and twitter pages. Be sure to click the links below to follow along!
