The Different Ways to Feed a Hermit Crab

Many Hermit Crabs are purchased as souvenirs at seaside shops, and the new owner takes his living memento home without a clue about how to feed a Hermit Crab.

HOW TO FEED A HERMIT CRAB FROM YOUR FRIDGE

Hermit crabs are omnivores - which is defined as an animal that will feed on many different kinds of food, including both plants and animals. This makes feeding them a fairly easy task, since there is a lot of variety to choose from, and many of the items can be found in the refrigerator. They are scavengers and are used to eating leftovers.

The primary consideration when learning how to feed your pet is to ensure the food is free from pesticides and preservatives, and that water has been de-chlorinated.

When feeding a hermit crab, topping the list of best foods are carotene and calcium. Carotene is easily derived from shredded carrots and other brightly colored vegetables and fruits. Calcium is present in greens such as kale, parsley and collards and in legumes, such as chickpeas.

Offering fish or chicken, will satisfy your pet's protein needs and keep him from chewing on his tank-mates.

HOW TO FEED A HERMIT CRAB FROM YOUR PANTRY

From crackers to cereals, unsalted peanuts to plain, popped popcorn, the pantry offers a wealth of feeding options. This is helpful when you've run out of the little crustacean's store-bought food, or you're running short on fresh fruits and vegetables.

HOW TO FEED A HERMIT CRAB FROM THE PET STORE

Pet stores have many ways to solve the problem of feeding hermit crabs. From specially formulated dry mixtures to frozen treats, your new pet is sure to be delighted with the variety. When choosing a dry food, read the label carefully. Believe it or not, even specially made food can be contaminated with items that are toxic to crustaceans. Look for Ethoxyquin and Copper Sulfate, two ingredients that must be avoided if your pet is to remain healthy.

Frozen foods that are suitable include brine shrimp, snails, krill and plankton. Cuttlebone and oyster shells will provide calcium. There are also mixtures of grains and seeds formulated specifically for them. Seaweed is an important part of their diet, and may be available in freeze dried or powdered form.

FEEDING A HERMIT CRAB FROM THE SPECIALTY FOOD STORE

Tropical fruits aren't always available at ordinary grocery stores, but your pet's eyes will goggle with delight when he is presented with papaya, mango, guava, pomegranate, kiwi fruit and his all-time favorite: freshly shredded coconut.

FEEDING A HERMIT CRAB FROM THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Everything from leaf litter, decaying wood, flowers from trees and bushes, and marigold petals are all yummy from their point of view, provided that none of it has been sprayed with pesticides or treated with fertilizers. If it's found in nature, it's on the menu.

VARIETIES OF FOOD FOR YOUR PET

In the wild, they are constantly eating different things. In fact, if presented with the same food day in and day out, the response is sometimes to stop eating altogether. Therefore, it is important to provide your pet with a smorgasbord of tastes and textures. It is fun to think up new foods to offer your pet.

METHODS TO FEEDING YOUR PET

Metal is harmful to crustaceans, so offer food and water in plastic or glass bowls. An even better choice is a seashell, because some of the calcium dissolves into the water. The primary concern is that the water not be too deep. If the shell has a deep end, be sure to add pebbles so that your pet can climb out.

Hand feeding is possible once it has grown accustomed to you. If the food is aromatic and tasty, you may be able to coax the little hermit to come out of its shell. At that moment, you will know that you have mastered the art of feeding your hermit crab.

Nick A. is hermit crab enthusiast. For more information and advice on feeding a hermit crab please visit http://www.hermitcrabland.com