Christmas Island's famous red crabs have begun their annual migration from the rainforest to the ocean. The first heavy rainfall of the season has kicked off the migration, which sees millions of red crabs journeying to the lower terraces to mate and spawn.

The spectacle of millions of these bright red crabs moving in unison is a striking visual. Their journey plays a crucial role in the ecosystem, contributing to the health of the island's flora by managing the vegetation. The spawning brings a flurry of activity from marine life, including whale sharks, that make their way to Christmas Island to feast on the crab larvae.

The migration is the first stage in the crab's mating process. After adult males and females migrate to the lower terraces to mate, the females gestate the eggs until spawning. Spawning is predicted to happen on a receding neap tide during the last quarter of the moon, this year expected around 25-26 November. The larvae will then spend the next 21 days developing in the waters around Christmas Island before, hopefully, returning to commence their own migration to the forest where they will live most of their life.

As they travel, the crabs navigate across roads and trails, often causing traffic disruptions. Local authorities implement measures to protect them, such as closing roads and creating crab crossings.

Renowned naturalist Sir David Attenborough has cited the Christmas Island red crab migration as one of the top moments in his illustrious television career. His documentary series 'Our Planet II', features Christmas Island's Red Crab (Gecarcoidea natalis). Christmas Island is the only place on the planet where this species exists.

Christmas Island Tourism Association chair David Watchorn described the event as an "Exciting time of the year for everyone”.

Nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, Christmas Island is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Its lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes and incredible underwater experiences make it a dream destination for visitors who seek the path less travelled. Visitors can explore the island's unique ecosystems, dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, and witness firsthand the Red Crab migration that has enchanted even the most seasoned naturalists.

For travellers looking to escape the conventional holiday festivities and experience a truly extraordinary Christmas, Christmas Island promises an unforgettable and unique adventure. For more information on visiting Christmas Island and witnessing the red crab migration, please visit www.christmas.net.au or contact the Christmas Island Visitor Centre cita@christmas.net.au.

About the Christmas Island Tourism Association

Christmas Island Tourism Association is dedicated to promoting Christmas Island as a premier nature-inspired destination. With its rich biodiversity, unique wildlife, and captivating natural phenomena like the red crab migration, Christmas Island offers an unparalleled experience for travellers seeking a nature inspired and adventurous holiday. For more information, visit www.christmas.net.au.

For media inquiries, high-resolution images, or further information, please contact:

Larissa Heald-West

Christmas Island Tourism Association marketing@christmas.net.au