Horseshoe Crab Community Science Program – Project Limulus
Horseshoe Crab Community Science Program – Project Limulus gives participants a rare opportunity to contribute to real scientific research while getting an up-close look at one of the planet’s oldest surviving species. Hosted by The Watch Hill Conservancy, this program marks the organization’s 20th year participating in Project Limulus, a long-running effort to monitor horseshoe crab populations throughout the region.
Often called “living fossils,” horseshoe crabs have existed for hundreds of millions of years and continue to play a vital role in coastal ecosystems. Volunteers assist researchers by surveying spawning activity along the shoreline during the high tides associated with new and full moons, when horseshoe crabs are most likely to come ashore. The data collected helps scientists track population trends and better understand the health of these remarkable animals.
Participants should be prepared for a physically demanding field experience that may involve walking up to two miles, often in shallow water, while conducting observations and collecting data. Surveys can last anywhere from 90 minutes to four hours depending on conditions and the number of horseshoe crabs encountered.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, June 27, 2026
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Location: Napatree Point Conservation Area, Fort Road, Westerly, RI
Highlights
- Participate in Project Limulus community science research
- Observe horseshoe crabs during spawning season
- Contribute valuable conservation data
- Learn about one of Earth’s oldest surviving species
- Guided by experienced conservation staff
Good to Know
- Participants must be at least 12 years old
- Maximum of six volunteers per survey
- Surveys may involve up to two miles of walking
- Walking in approximately one foot of water is common
- Survey duration can range from 1.5 to 4 hours
- Registration is required. Click website link at the bottom of this page to register.
Participants will receive additional survey details after registering.
