In New Caledonia, the largest mangrove swamps are located on the west coast and in the northern part of the main island. Mud crabs live in shallow (0–10 m) soft mud or sand and mud sea bottoms associated with mangroves. It is the women who usually go crab hunting. This article explains the routines of women who go crab hunting, the seasons when it is possible, the size of the crabs caught (soft shelled, with eggs) etc. The article also lists a few interesting recipes.