It lives in burrows in coastal and estuarine mud-flats, and can be extremely abundant.

[5] Leptuca pugilator is one of only five species of fiddler crabs found primarily in temperate areas.

[7] They may also be found in the warmer waters of the Atlantic along the West coast of Africa.

Leptuca pugilator can be found in estuarine and coastal areas or sheltered shores with sandy or muddy substrates.

[6] It is frequently found in areas bordering marshes and along the banks of tidal streams.