hermit crab

mm_simb · 04-15-2005, 02:23 AM

I really want a hermit crab but I haven't been able to find that much info on them. I was just wondering if you knew any info about hermit crabs that you would like to share with me. For example, what size tank would I need for about 3 of them (I've heard it's better to get them some friends)? How often would I need to get them the shells for them to transfer to when they get bigger? What do they eat? What can be put in the tank as substrate? Do they need little bowls to put water into? Any other question I'm missing? lol

Sorry for so many questions but I just can't seem to find any info on them. I'll keep trying though as I'm really interested in getting some of those. Thanks

Ninja · 04-15-2005, 02:44 AM

Here might be all the info you will need

I suggest NOT getting them from a mall as they are often far too overstressed and usally dont live long. Good luck and best wishes

The hermit crab makes a great social pet.
http://www.animalnetwork.com/critter...ab/default.asp

Caging: The Best Place for Hermit Crabs to Live
http://www.animalnetwork.com/critters/profiles/hermitcrab/cage.asp

Crab Consumables: How to Feed Your Hermit Crab
http://www.animalnetwork.com/critters/profiles/hermitcrab/food.asp

Handling: Can You Cuddle With Your Crab?
http://www.animalnetwork.com/critter...tcrab/hndl.asp

Pet Potential: Is a Hermit Crab the Pet for You?
http://www.animalnetwork.com/critter...tcrab/pets.asp

Supplies: Supplies Your Crab Can't Live Without
http://www.animalnetwork.com/critter...tcrab/supl.asp

Special Tips: Crabby Considerations
http://www.animalnetwork.com/critter...tcrab/tips.asp

mm_simb · 04-15-2005, 03:00 AM

Thanks...I've read all of it already and they don't seem that hard to care for. Would they need a lid if nothing can get to them? I'm sure they can't jump.

Ninja · 04-15-2005, 03:18 AM

They can climb but I think only certain things they can climb.
If its a glass tank it would be fine but if you have any other pets, especially cats n dogs I would put a mesh lid on it

fertmom · 04-15-2005, 08:22 AM

You would need a variety of shapes and sizes of empty shells available at all times for them to change into when they grow. It is best to keep small bowls of water and a wet sponge in the cage as in the wild they are constantly foraging in and out of the tide pools and need the water available. I believe they make hermit crab food, but typically they eat left over bits of fish and crabs on the beach. The substrate could be sand or small stones.
Just a warning, be careful when you clean the tank. They are very susceptible to even very small amounts of chemicals.

najiwench · 04-15-2005, 10:14 AM

Crab Street Journal:

http://www.crabstreetjournal.com/

and there is a hermie yahoogroup, too

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/hermies/