Razor clam diggers along the coast of Grays Harbor were surprised during recent openings when they dug up more Dungeness crab than clams.
The scenario: You’re on the beach digging for razor clams, and you see what you think is a clam “show.” You dig down only to find that it’s not a razor clam, but a female Dungeness crab.
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has received reports of gravid (egg-bearing) female Dungeness crab on beaches during razor clam digs last week and this week. Although it’s common to encounter a few crab during fall digs, recent numbers have been uncommonly high.
“We aren’t certain of the reason for the increase and are unable to plan for such a rare event,” Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife officials stated in a news release.
Gravid female Dungeness crab typically return to shallow coastal waters in late fall and early winter, when the colder water and calmer ocean conditions are optimal for egg development. They burrow into the seabed to protect their eggs from predators and strong currents, as well as to insulate the eggs and maintain a stable environment for their development.
There they remain, periodically emerging, until their eggs hatch in late spring or early summer. During low tides some crab may become exposed, partially buried, or detectable by bubbles in the sand.
Buried crab’s air bubbles create a “show” much like that of a razor clam. Unlike razor clam shows, which only have one hole — a small dimple, doughnut or keyhole indentation — crab shows often have two holes close together. Another difference is that razor clams release one quick spurt of water, with a “show” developing immediately. Buried crab produce a stream of water, and the “show” doesn’t develop further because the crab isn’t moving. You may also see the crab’s hump in the sand.
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife advises to pay attention to the type of show; dig only when you’re sure it’s a razor clam; and, if possible, dig gently, slowly probing the surface of the sand. If you accidentally dig up a crab while digging for razor clams, rebury it.
Most buried crab are within protected bays or along coastal beaches below the low water line; relatively few have been found in sections of beach overlapping with razor clam beds. Although the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has unfortunately received reports of crabs being destroyed, they estimate the number to be a fraction of the overall population.
