Crustacean pilgrimage of epic proportions
Roebuck Bay may be renowned for hosting thousands of migratory shorebirds each year, but one eagle-eyed photographer recently captured another spectacular pilgrimage of epic proportions.
During the wet season, armies of land crabs emerge from their burrows in the salt marshes surrounding the bay to undertake a mass migration to the ocean to lay their eggs.
Broome Bird Observatory wet season caretaker Roger Standen was lucky enough to capture the crustaceans marching over the bay to their destination.
The photo was taken three weeks ago after recent rainfall.
BBO assistant warden Ric Else said it was incredible to witness such a spectacle on camera.
"Although this phenomenon happens here every year, it takes place during the wet season and is over very quickly, so not many people get to witness it," he said.
"As a volunteer wet season caretaker at the BBO, Roger was here at just the right time and managed to get some stunning photos of the event."
