Watch for the Extra Skeletons on New York Beaches this Weekend

Depending on where your travels take you this Labor Day weekend, you might get far more than sand when you hit the beach.

Across the east coast, beachgoers are reporting swaths of what was originally thought to be dead animals. Instead, it's just their skeletons... sort of.

"Living Fossils" in New York State

There are fascinating creatures across New York State, but there's something extra-special about the animals that have been around for thousands (or in this case millions) of years.

Ancient Snapping Turtles in New York State

Snapping turtles are one of these prehistoric beings that scientists say have remained relatively unchanged since the time of dinosaurs. Surprisingly, they're not even close to being the oldest species in the state.

Read More: VIDEO: How to Safely Handle a Hudson Valley Snapping Turtle

The Species in New York State That's Over 400 Million Years Old

While snapping turtles can be traced back roughly 90 million years, there's another animal that has been inhabiting the earth for nearly half a billion years. And this month, they're leaving something slightly creepy on New York shores.

Horseshoe Crabs Causing Concerns on Local Beaches

"We recently received reports from concerned citizens about unusual numbers of dead horseshoe crabs washing up on beaches", began a recent post from a neighboring marine fishery division (below). As it turns out, the horseshoe crabs aren't dying, but growing.

Horseshoe Crab Molting Season in New York State

As they explained, the "in -between" season of late August and September is primetime for horseshoe crabs to molt, shedding their exoskeleton before a new, larger one is formed. While some beaches might look like graveyards, it could be a fun opportunity to grab an eerie souvenir.

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