Every spring, an ancient natural phenomenon unfolds along Delaware’s scenic bay shores—the horseshoe crab migration. The Delaware Bay boasts the highest concentration of horseshoe crabs in the world. If you think you need to make the drive to Sussex County’s beaches to see this impressive number of horseshoe crabs, think again. Kent County’s bay shores are a premier destination to spectate this remarkable event.
Horseshoe crabs play a vital role in the health of Delaware’s coastal ecosystems. During migration season, horseshoe crab eggs feed thousands of migratory shorebirds as they stop along the Delaware Bay before continuing north to nest in the Arctic. The migratory feast is vital to many species, but especially the federally threatened red knot, which relies on Delaware’s horseshoe crab eggs to survive.
This phenomenon is one every Delawarean should witness firsthand. Visit the bay shores at high tide to see horseshoe crabs, and just after high tide for the highest volume of birds. Visitors are encouraged to help flip over horseshoe crabs that are stranded on their backs by lifting the edge of their shell—never by the tail. While some of the horseshoe crabs can use a helping hand, visitors should always leave the shorebirds alone, as they need to conserve energy to complete their migration.
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Where to Witness the Horseshoe Crab Migration in Central Delaware
Kitts Hummock is an official sanctuary for horseshoe crabs. Located east of Dover, it’s a great spot to witness the migration in May and June. Just take Kitts Hummock Road all the way to the bay. There are a few public parking spaces along the road near the public access to the beach.
Kitts Hummock Road
Pickering Beach is another official sanctuary located north of Kitts Hummock. Like Kitts Hummock, Pickering Beach has public access but limited parking spaces. During high tide, you’re sure to see plenty of horseshoe crabs and shore birds and may witness some turtles and other common bay wildlife.
Pickering Beach Road
Bowers Beach is a small bay community located south of Dover. There’s plenty of beach parking in a public lot a block from the beach on South Flack Avenue. During high tide, you’ll witness horseshoe crabs and the migratory birds that come with them. After you walk along the shore, make a stop at the nearby JP’s on the Wharf to refuel with a seafood dinner.
102 South Flack Avenue, Frederica
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Woodland Beach in Smyrna is one of the northernmost hotspots for migrating horseshoe crabs. You won’t necessarily see horseshoe crabs during every spring visit, but if you stop by during high tide, there’s a good chance you’ll see a few!
Woodland Avenue
DuPont Nature Center is just south of the Kent County line in Milford. The interactive exhibits and other educational opportunities provide ways to learn more about horseshoe crabs and the role they play in Delaware’s ecosystems. You can witness the horseshoe crabs firsthand from the observation deck and live camera footage.
2992 Lighthouse Road, Milford
Slaughter Beach is just south of the DuPont Nature Center and one of the most popular hotspots in the First State for horseshoe crab viewing. During high tide, you’re sure to see many horseshoe crabs at Slaughter Beach. There’s plenty of beach parking, and you’ll see the creatures prominently displayed on the beach town’s signage.
354 State Road 15, Milford
Related: Hit These Trails for Great Hiking at the Delaware Beaches
