Hermit crabs are fascinating crustaceans and are an ideal choice for beginner owners. They are hardy, low-maintenance creatures with specific temperature and humidity needs. You will have hours of fun watching their fascinating behavior, especially when they choose a new shell to live in. These unique crabs are a perfect introduction to the world of inverts. If you want to know if these cute little critters are for you, look at these six essential facts about pet hermit crabs.
1. Hermit Crabs Are Crustaceans
Hermit crabs are saltwater and freshwater crustaceans. Some are marine species that live in the ocean, while others are terrestrial and live on land. In this article, we’ll focus on land hermit crabs, which live on shorelines because they like to live near but not in the water.
Contrary to their name, hermits are more closely related to squat lobsters than crabs. A hermit’s body is more elongated and softer than a regular crab, and they live in seashells to protect their soft areas. Hermits have an exoskeleton that they shed as they grow and seek out larger shells to live in after molting. Hermit crabs can grow up to six inches long and live for over 15 years, depending on the species.
2. Hermit Crabs Are Sensitive When They Molt
Hermit crabs regularly shed their exoskeleton and are incredibly sensitive when they molt. Some species molt more than others and shed their shell several times a year, while others molt only once every 18 months. Young crabs generally molt more regularly to accommodate growth spurts. The process can take several weeks, and many crabs bury themselves under the substrate when it happens.
Hermits are usually quiet and lethargic with a lack of appetite during molting and incredibly sensitive, so you must not handle them. Handling your crab during shedding causes stress and may lead to injury. They seek out a new, larger shell after a molt, so you must provide them with several shell options. It may be tempting to give hermits brightly colored, painted shells, but expert keepers say this is a bad idea and that hermits prefer natural-looking ones.
3. Hermit Crabs Are Sociable
Although their name suggests otherwise, hermits are sociable creatures and like to live in colonies. Ideally, you should keep at least two together. You need at least a 10-gallon terrarium or vivarium per two hermits. If you have more than two, you need a larger tank. If you keep too many in a small place, they will be stressed due to overcrowding and may be aggressive toward each other. Hermit crabs prefer a glass tank with a secure, sealed lid.
Beginner owners shouldn’t mix different species because they will fight over territory. If you want happy hermits, you must provide lots of environmental enrichment. They love climbing, so ensure they have lots of rocks and driftwood to scramble over. You should also add tank plants to help replicate their natural environment and provide hiding spaces.
3. Hermits Are Good for Beginners
Hermits are good for first-time pet owners because they are hardy, adaptable, low-maintenance creatures. They are tropical crustaceans and need a warm, humid environment; temperature and humidity are essential for their health and well-being.
Here’s a brief overview of a hermit crab care needs:
- Substrate – Hermits like to burrow and need a deep layer of soft substrate, such as sand. You can also add areas of fiber bedding, such as coconut husk and moss, which help retain moisture. You should never use gravel or wood shavings as a substrate for crabs.
- Temperature – You must keep a hermit tank at a temperature of 72 to 80 F, and you can use special lights or reptile heat mats to provide heat. Hermits need a hot and cool area in the tank and 12 hours of darkness.
- Humidity – Hermit crabs need high humidity levels of 70 – 80 percent. They can’t absorb oxygen without moisture and can suffocate if it’s too dry. You may have to mist the tank regularly to keep the humidity levels high.
4. Hermit Crabs Are Omnivores
Hermit crabs are nocturnal omnivores and like to scavenge and feed at night. You should feed them commercial hermit crab pellets daily and offer fresh fruit four to five times weekly. They also appreciate weekly treats such as seaweed, fish flakes, live insects, and seafood. Hermits are incredibly sensitive to chemicals, and poisoning is a real threat, so always wash fruits and veggies to remove pesticides before feeding them. You must remove leftovers daily because they will attract mold quickly with the heat and humidity of the enclosure. Hermit crabs also need calcium supplements, such as cuttlebone or commercial calcium powder, to help them maintain a strong exoskeleton.
Hermit crabs need a fresh water supply in their enclosure. Ideally, they should have access to a freshwater and saltwater bathing dish. The dish must be deep enough for them to submerge with steps or rocks to allow them to crawl out safely. Never use chlorinated water for hermits, clean their water when it’s soiled or at least three times weekly, and deep clean the bowls once a week.
6. Hermit Crabs Can Pinch!
Hermits have sharp claws, so you must be careful when handling them because they can pinch your skin. The correct way to hold a hermit is by the back of its shell. Being pinched by a crab is unpleasant, so always handle them over a soft area in case you drop them. Hermit crabs are super delicate, and you should always supervise children when they handle them.
Hermit crabs enjoy human interaction but may be shy at first. You can build trust with your little creatures by hand-feeding treats and handling them for short periods. Slowly increase handling time and put them back in their enclosure if they become stressed. Your hermit will be more comfortable when you hold them when you build up a trusting relationship.
