Many beachgoers harm crabs by keeping them in small containers

Michael Madsen, owner of Jyllandsakvariet in Thyborøn, warns that crabs and other small creatures caught during summer outings often suffer in small, warm, oxygen-poor plastic buckets.

Crabs are not the cuddliest animals, so people may not consider their welfare, Madsen said. “Krabber er ikke de mest nuttede dyr,” he noted.

Responsible crabbing requires attention to oxygen levels. Instead of filling a bucket with water, keep only a shallow layer so the crabs can access air. This can keep them alive for up to a day. A deep bucket of water quickly becomes oxygen-depleted, stressing or killing the animals.

Mixing crabs with other species is also risky. “Krabber er nogle små bæster. De æder hvad som helst – inklusiv hinanden,” Madsen said.

Five tips for safer shore safaris 1. Use large plastic tubs big enough for children to sit in, not small buckets. 2. Place the tub in shallow water to keep it cool. 3. Add sand and stones with seaweed for cover; this reduces stress and encourages natural behavior. 4. Continuously pour fresh water into the tub; excess will drain away. 5. At the end, tip the tub gently or drag it into slightly deeper water and lay it on its side so creatures can swim out calmly.

Michael Madsen, owner of Jyllandsakvariet in Thyborøn, warns that crabs and other small creatures caught during summer outings often suffer in small, warm, oxygen-poor plastic buckets.

Crabs are not the cuddliest animals, so people may not consider their welfare, Madsen said. “Krabber er ikke de mest nuttede dyr,” he noted.

Responsible crabbing requires attention to oxygen levels. Instead of filling a bucket with water, keep only a shallow layer so the crabs can access air. This can keep them alive for up to a day. A deep bucket of water quickly becomes oxygen-depleted, stressing or killing the animals.

Mixing crabs with other species is also risky. “Krabber er nogle små bæster. De æder hvad som helst – inklusiv hinanden,” Madsen said.

Five tips for safer shore safaris

1. Use large plastic tubs big enough for children to sit in, not small buckets.

2. Place the tub in shallow water to keep it cool.

3. Add sand and stones with seaweed for cover; this reduces stress and encourages natural behavior.

4. Continuously pour fresh water into the tub; excess will drain away.

5. At the end, tip the tub gently or drag it into slightly deeper water and lay it on its side so creatures can swim out calmly.