In a shallow pond, the water was drying up, and many crabs were struggling in the mud, worried about their fate. One day, a crafty heron flew by and noticed their trouble. “Oh, poor crabs,” he said sweetly, “I see you’re having a hard time. Don’t worry! I’m here to help you escape this muddy mess.”

The crabs, feeling hopeful, trusted the heron. One by one, the heron picked up the crabs, carrying them away. But instead of helping, the sneaky heron gobbled up each crab as soon as they were out of sight!

However, one clever crab, watching from the shore, noticed the trick. When it was his turn, he thought quickly and decided he wouldn’t let the heron fool him. As soon as the heron picked him up, the crab pinched the heron’s leg hard with his strong claws.

“Ow! Ow!” squawked the heron, flapping his wings in surprise and pain. The heron quickly let go of the crab, who dropped safely back into the mud and scurried away. The other crabs watched in awe as the clever crab escaped the heron’s trap.

From that day on, the crabs learned to be careful of those who pretend to help but have selfish plans.

Moral:

Be cautious of those who pretend to help.

Parenting Tip: Teach children the importance of caution when trusting others, especially strangers. Help them understand how to recognize true kindness versus selfish intentions.

Fun Questions For Curious Kids

• Why did the crabs trust the heron at first?
• What was the heron’s plan, and why was it unfair?
• How did the clever crab save himself from the heron?
• What would you have done if you were one of the crabs?
• Why is it important to think carefully before trusting someone?
• Can you think of a time when someone tried to trick you? What did you do?
• How do you think the other crabs felt when they saw the clever crab escape?
• If you could give the crabs a tool to protect themselves, what would it be?

Did You Know? Fun Crab and Heron Facts!

1. Crabs can walk sideways: Their legs are specially designed for quick sideways movements.
2. Crabs have strong claws: They use them to fight, catch food, and protect themselves—just like the clever crab in the story!
3. Herons are expert fishers: They stand still for long periods, waiting to catch fish with their sharp beaks.
4. Herons can live near ponds, rivers, and even the sea: They’re found all over the world.
5. Crabs are ancient creatures: They’ve existed for over 200 million years!
6. Herons have long necks: This helps them strike quickly to catch prey.
7. Some crabs can regenerate claws: If they lose a claw, it can grow back over time.
8. Herons can fly silently: Their large wings let them glide without making noise.
9. Crabs communicate through drumming and waving claws: It’s like their way of talking!
10. Herons symbolize patience and wisdom in some cultures: They wait quietly to achieve their goals.

Download Free Coloring Pages Related To This Story

Bring the story to life with coloring pages designed to spark creativity and make story time even more fun. Coloring helps kids express their creativity, improve focus, and reinforce the story’s themes in a fun, engaging way. After reading together, let them bring the story to life with colors!

Click on any of the free coloring pages below to download or print it!