Answer
Migrating red knots and other species depend on horseshoe crab eggs for critical stopover fuel—stepping on buried egg clusters harms birds and crabs. Wildlife photographers should stay on marked paths during May peak. Ocean City birders sometimes day-trip to bay beaches timed with moon phases.
Sources: Maryland DNR · Maryland Coastal Bays Program · Visit Ocean City
Editorial visitor guidance for Ocean City, Maryland. Confirm current Town of Ocean City, Maryland DNR, NPS Assateague, and NWS rules when regulations or safety apply.
