Taiwan is working to protect brown land crabs from vehicles when they cross the road. The Tainan City Government said on Monday that it has begun installing signs near Yanshui River to protect the creatures during their breeding season.
The city said that between June and November, female brown land crabs travel to downstream sections of the Yanshui River to lay their eggs. Their journey puts them in danger of being killed by vehicles when they cross the road.
This year, the city government is urging motorists to slow down when they see "crab crossing" signs on roads bordering the river.
The city also is seeking approval for a plan to have glare shields installed on street lights near the river. The shields are to prevent crabs from being attracted by the bright light.
Crab carrying events are also in the works where volunteers will help carry the crabs safely to the riverside.
Brown land crabs are found in coastal areas throughout southwestern Taiwan and the Penghu islands.