Halloween Crab Stowaway Finds New Home at Denver Zoo After Flight from Costa Rica

In a surprising arrival, a vibrant Halloween crab, also called a moon crab, was discovered onboard a flight from Costa Rica at Denver International Airport. The colorful crustacean, known for its striking jack-o-lantern-like coloring, was found in the main cabin after the plane landed, prompting swift intervention from airline staff and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to ensure the crab’s safety.

The Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance welcomed the unusual passenger, now safe and sound, into its care. This rare opportunity allows the zoo to educate visitors about marine life, with the Halloween crab set to make appearances at the Gates Amphitheatre during "Boo at the Zoo" events. This outreach highlights the importance of marine conservation, especially as Halloween brings seasonal attention to this colorfully festive species.

Blackback land crabs, commonly called Halloween crabs, grow up to four inches and are named for their bright orange and black coloration, as well as their nocturnal habits. After October, the crab will be permanently housed at the Tropical Discovery exhibit, reopening to the public on October 26 following repairs.