Common shore crab

Carcinus maenas

What do they look like?

The shore crab is usually a greenish brown colour, although it sometimes can be red or orange depending on the age of the animal. They are the most commonly spotted crabs around the Scottish coast.

Where can I see them in Scotland?

Shore crabs live along the rocky shore and are frequently seen in rockpools. They eat a varied diet, feeding on both plants and animals, sometimes even hunting other crabs.

When rockpooling, please be careful to leave everything as you found it.

Discover more about how to rockpool responsibly by watching our Beginner's Guide.

Crab on brown seaweed
(c) Charlotte Foster