Our birding trip on San Cristobal included some extra time to explore on our own. As we walked along the edge of the bay, we spotted this Lava Heron (previously known as Striated Heron) busily preparing its meal. Parts of the crab are strewn about on the rock and in the pool of water on the rock. We were so fascinated by watching the Lava Heron, we watched until the last portion of the crab was consumed.
There is a small audience of other Sally Lightfoot crabs watching. Sally Lightfoot crabs are brightly colored, often displaying vibrant shades of red, orange, and blue. Their coloration can vary, with adults typically being more colorful than the younger, darker crabs.