Community scientists, or citizen scientists, are community members that help scientists collect data and information about interesting things happening in the local environment. This information helps us answer important questions and learn more about what’s happening in the world around us. Kids make great community scientists because they are curious, creative and adventurous. Joining the effort is easy. If you’re ready to hit the rocks and help us learn more about some pretty nefarious coastal invaders, green crabs, follow the steps below to get started.
#1 Head down to the rocks with Daryn in the video below to learn more about what species of crabs you will find along New England’s rocky shore.
#2 Excited to get your feet wet? Grab our Great Green Crab Hunt community science guide to learn more and participate in a New Hampshire community monitoring project. Have fun and help us collect data!
#3 As mentioned in the video, green crabs are an invasive species. This is an organism that did not originate in, or is not native to, a certain area. They may be brought to an area on purpose or unintentionally. Invasive species can cause extreme damage to our ecosystems and our resources. Head to the NH Fish and Game website for a list of common invasive species found in NH. Do your own research on invasive species and create a WANTED! poster or your own educational video using this activity!
#4 Green crabs are a common crab found along our rocky shore. Green crabs originated in Europe and were brought to the United States via ballast water of cargo ships. Try our fun Green Crab Invasion Maze activity and see if your green crab can make it to the United States.
#5 Interested in looking for other species in the tide pools? Check out last month’s Your Learning Connection for tips and videos, and take this handy Tide Pool Exploration Guide with you next time you hit the rocks!
Tip: You will find more crabs and marine species exposed at low and mid-tide, so be sure to check the local tide charts before heading out to explore.
