Soft Shell crabs are hard shelled crabs that are molting or dropping their shell to grow a new one in warm weather.  At the point when the shell is shed they are harvested and consumed whole (soft shell on).  Often sautéed, pan fried or even grilled these crab take on the flavor and seasoning of the coating or breading well.  Part of their appeal is the crispness or crunch when sautéed or fried and the ability to et the whole crab without having to sort through the shell and cartilage for meat.