News Release

National Seashore to Host Horseshoe Crab Celebration

Horseshoe crab
A young child holds a horseshoe crab. There are marshes and green grass in the background.

Image Courtesy of Mary Beth Fiasconaro

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News Release Date: June 8, 2022

Contact: Daniel Blankenship, 508-255-3421, ext. 0305

WELLFLEET, Mass–The horseshoe crab is one of Earth’s most ancient animals, dating back more than 400 million years. In honor of the International Day of the Horseshoe Crab, on June 19 and 20 Cape Cod National Seashore will host hands-on opportunities for the public to learn about the vital roles this animal plays in the marine environment and in human health.

Celebrating Horseshoe Crabs is a family-friendly, day-long event on Sunday, June 19 at Salt Pond Visitor Center in Eastham. Horseshoe crab educators Gary and Sharon Kreamer and seashore staff will share the life history and wonders of horseshoe crabs. Drop in between 10 am and 3 pm for hands-on activities and to gain an up-close appreciation for what makes horseshoe crabs unique and valuable to coastal ecology and human health. An indoor auditorium program with illustrations and video clips will be offered from 1 to 2 pm. Cap off the day from 4 to 5 pm with a short walk at Salt Pond to look for spawning animals. All activities are free and open to the public. Reservations are required for the 4 pm walk and may be made up to one week in advance by calling Salt Pond Visitor Center at 508-255-3421, ext. 9. Salt Pond Visitor Center is located at 50 Nauset Road, Eastham.

Horseshoe Crab Science will be held on Monday, June 20 from 1 to 2 pm at East Harbor in North Truro. This is an opportunity to learn about research in the field with scientists studying how horseshoe crab populations are recovering following the restoration of East Harbor. Wear shoes or boots that can get wet or borrow ours. Meet at East Harbor, off High Head Road, North Truro. No reservations are required. 

For more information about Cape Cod National Seashore programs, visit Calendar - Cape Cod National Seashore (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)



Last updated: June 8, 2022

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99 Marconi Site Road
Wellfleet, MA 02667

Phone:

508-255-3421
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