Crab Catchers at Dusk

I've always had a fascination with crabs. When I was wee, my Pappy taught us how to fish for crabs, using an unfortunate limpet tied to the end of a string. So I was excited to see what Jack made of it on our recent holiday in Co. Donegal, Ireland. The waters were a little choppy, and we were losing the light, but, says I, 'we're not leaving 'til Jack catches a crab!' Pappy Jack had kindly made Jack Jr. a rod of his very own. It was the same as all the other rods (a bamboo stick with a hook and string) but a little bit smaller, and my Nanny insisted it has a stopper at the end to protect little eyes! Safety first, friends!

Luckily, the wee beasties didn't disappoint and took the bait. We caught a bucket full. Big and small. Mummy here was the only one brave enough to pick them up. Their strength never ceases to amaze me. What spirited little fighters they are! Like little boxers, they're always ready for fisty cuffs. As usual, when we're done marvelling at the creatures, we let them go. It's funny to see them all scuttle away and 'buckleap' off the side of the pier. And what did Jack make of them? He was intrigued and terrified all at the same time. I still can't get a straight answer out of him. Sometimes, when I ask what he thought of the crabs he tells me they are a "wee bit scary - nip me" (he says this while making pincer movements with his hands. I can assure you that no crab got close enough to Jack to pinch him!) Other times he tells me they're just plain "nice".

The little man was wearing a thrifted coat from the Rusty Zip. His hat and boots are both supplied by two kind sponsors, Ingugu and Hunter.

"Go free our crustacean compatriots"