The sea creatures were discovered in Bolton by a member of the public who spotted a crab on their driveway after it set off their Ring doorbell camera.
The first crab was taken to Bolton Vets for Pets, where staff were puzzled by its presence so far from the coast.
Staff named the crabs Sandra and Malcolm (Image: Pets at Home)
Things took an even stranger turn less than an hour later when the same person returned with a second crab.
Karla Maginn, registered veterinary nurse and practice owner, said: “When the first crab came in, there was definitely a moment of, ‘are we really looking at a crab in Bolton?’
“Then the second one arrived and it became even more surreal.
“There was lots of laughter, but the team responded brilliantly.
“Shore crabs have very specific needs, so we kept Sandra and Malcolm separate, monitored them closely and contacted specialists before making any decisions.”
The team set up a temporary “Crab Ward” and named the crabs Sandra and Malcolm.
As shore crabs can be territorial, they were housed separately to prevent fighting and given small amounts of saline solution while the team sought specialist advice.
Guidance was provided by experts at Manchester Sea Life Centre, Blackpool Sea Life Centre and other marine specialists.
The crabs were later released the same day by one of the practice’s registered veterinary nurses at New Ferry Shore, following professional recommendations.
Ms Maginn said: “We were delighted to help them return safely to the coast later that day.
The team set up a temporary ‘Crab Ward’ (Image: Pets at Home)
“If anyone finds wildlife somewhere unexpected, especially if it appears injured, unwell or out of place, the best thing to do is ask for advice before intervening.”
The vets don’t know how the crabs ended up in Bolton, although one had cobwebs on its shell, suggesting it may have been hiding nearby before being discovered.
The team said the experience would be hard to forget after a day filled with crab puns, a handmade ward sign and two unexpected visitors.