The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park is home to many different habitats. Ranging from coral reefs, mangroves, islands and beaches the Whitsundays really showcase everything that the GBR has to offer. That’s why this week, we’re showing off Hill Inlets’ famous soldier crabs!
These little guys form ‘armies’ during the low tide and with Ocean Rafting’s ultimate access to Hill Inlet, if the tides are right, we will put you in the best spot to see these iconic little crustaceans. Identified by their powder blue colour, these tiny critters can be found in their thousands across the tidal flats of Hill Inlet.
Soldier Crabs actually feed on small microscopic organisms in the sand called detritus. Filtering through the sand they leave small rolled-up pellets of sand behind them whilst they explore the beach. During the higher tides, these crabs will bury themselves in the sand to hide from the Cow Tail Rays that occupy the Inlet during the higher tides.
Did you know…? Soldier Crabs are one of the few species of crabs known to be able to walk forwards and backwards, as well as side to side?!
