Learn How to Properly Care For and Feed Your Hermit Crab

Most people don't realize that having a hermit crab as a pet can be quite exciting. These crabs borrow shells of other ocean creatures such as sea snails to live in; a big reason why these creatures obtained the name hermit crab. However, the name hermit is kind of misleading for these crabs, as they are actually very sociable and love to live in groups of more than 100.

When you own a hermit crab, it's not going to be the same as owning a cat or dog. You should learn all you can about hermit crabs including how they live and eat.

Nine Important Things You Need To Learn About Hermit Crabs

- This species, which fall under the coenobitidae family, are easy to take care of; thus they make wonderful pets.
- They have a hard exoskeleton and have five pairs of legs.
- They also live in borrowed shells of dead animals such as sea snails. While they are generally found in the water, hermit crabs can live together outside the water for several months. However, they will gravitate toward water to replenish lost moisture.
- They sleep under the sand to avoid the sun, which can kill them.
- They are happier living in groups. For many people, these animals make adorable pets.
- Many live in captivity like to live in one place together just as they do in the wild.
- Also, they are not picky about the kind of food they will eat. This means pet owners don't have to spend a lot of money on extra food just for their pet.
- They don't mind being held in the palm of their owner's hand. They won't move and don't twitch when they are being held.
- They also are very active creatures at night so keep them away from your bedroom.

How To Know When Your Hermit Crab Is Molting

Owners may be unable to know when their specific breeds are molting. Some will begin to look different and act strangely. However, here are three signs that can let you know when your pet is about to molt:

- The eyes may begin to get cloudy
- They may consume more food and water than normal
- They'll begin to dig much more

If you notice your pet doing any of these things, then you need to move them to a more humid tank and supply them with more food and water dishes.

The Diet of Hermit Crabs

They do need a well-balanced and healthy diet; this means they need a mixture of antioxidants, calcium and carotene. When the molting process is over, these crabs become deficient in carotene, which makes their color fade thus becoming dull and gray. Feed your pet plenty of carrots, corn and vegetables to keep them happy and lively.
It's best to not feed them, boxed macaroni, cheese and potato chips; stay with fish, meat, fresh fruits and vegetables. Make sure they get plenty of tannin in their food supply, which can be found in tree bark and oak leaves.

Nick A. is hermit crab enthusiast. For more information and advice on feeding hermit crabs please visit www.hermitcrabland.com