Crab Swarm Overwhelms Gibara: "They're Everywhere, Even on the Walls"

Residents of the coastal neighborhood of Caletones in Gibara, Holguín, are grappling with an overwhelming influx of crabs that have taken over homes and streets. A video shared on Facebook by Marlene R. Sandoval shows a house completely overrun by these crustaceans, with them scuttling across the yard, inside rooms, the kitchen, and even scaling the walls.

Although startling, this natural occurrence is common during this time of year. Historically documented, crabs migrate from wooded areas to the coast for reproduction, traversing fields, towns, and even roads, as seen in locations like the Bay of Pigs, Trinidad, and Morón.

Their migration, which peaks with the spring rains, is most intense between March and May. Given its proximity to the sea and wetlands, Caletones becomes a crucial passageway for these creatures. While locals are generally accustomed to this phenomenon, the sheer magnitude this year has left many in awe.

Interestingly, some social media users noted the crab's role in traditional Cuban dishes, such as crab enchilado. However, authorities warn that these crabs are "not fit for consumption." Experts state that unlike the more commonly eaten land crab, the red or zombie crab is inedible and could pose health risks. Its shell contains tungsten, a heavy metal that may accumulate in humans and cause significant health issues.

Known as the land crab or zombie crab, this species is not unique to Cuba but is an integral part of the island's ecosystem, especially in the Zapata Swamp. Despite being inedible, environmentalists emphasize their conservation, as they provide sustenance for various terrestrial and marine species.