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**A newer version of this article is available: http://crabstreetjournal.org/blog/2018/02/11/land-hermit-crab-shell-guide/ Hermit crab shells sold online are typically sold based on the size of the opening. When purchasing new shells for your hermit crab, measure their existing shell and then choose several shells that are somewhat larger. Hermit crabs typically prefer a shell that fits snugly allowing them to fully seal off the opening to protect themselves from predators and dessication. The photo shows how to take measurements properly. Ecuadorian (C. compressus) typically prefer a shell with a D shaped opening and commonly wear shells that are too small. Other species will wear a variety of shells,Read More →

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UPDATE: Please note that all heat pad, strips should be placed on the back wall of the tank and not under it as used to be the norm. written by Marie Davis It can be confusing as to what the temperature of ones Crabitat actually is sometimes. One buys a thermometer to place on the inside of their Crabitat to monitor the air temperature. The hermit crabs original home is in the tropics, so air temperature of ones Crabitat is important so not to cause them any undo stress. The thermometer is placed at substrate level, along with the humidity gauge, to monitor the temperatureRead More →

Gel Limb of a land hermit crab Coenobita variabilis

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Please read the updated version of this article: http://crabstreetjournal.org/blog/2017/07/14/caring-hermit-crabs-limb-loss-deformities/ Written by Marie Davis (aka ladybug15057) During a crabbers crabbing experience one may find themselves faced with a situation of needing to care for a severely handicapped or mutilated hermit crab. Do not despair, it is possible to care for a him so he can regenerate his missing limbs in hopes of having a successful molt. To do so will require extra TLC, time and patience. First, one needs to have an isolation tank set up. The isolation tank should have a humidity level of 75-80%. (or the same percentage as the main tank humidity level was,Read More →

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**A newer version of this article is available: http://crabstreetjournal.org/blog/2018/02/11/land-hermit-crab-shell-guide/ Note: Fun shell changing videos at the bottom of the post. crab_crazy asked: Hi yall! About how often do hermies change there shells? I provide them with shells all the time! Two of my hermies just changed there shell! They look really cute, but, anyway. I was just wondering. Thanks yall! Ronni Julia_Crab Hi, Ronni, Well, there is no exact answer to your question. Some crabs change shells all the time. My Fifi, a PP, after her first molt two months ago, has changed shells at least six times. She went hog-wild after I bought aRead More →

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***Note: There is a newer version of this article: Land Hermit Crab Shell Guide   A hermit crab’s shell is his home and his protection from predators and dessication. Hermit crabs take up residence in discarded shells and can not make their own shell. When kept as pets it is important that you choose suitable shells for your hermit crab. In semi-terrestrial hermit crabs a well-fitting shell is essential for maintaining low evaporation rates and carrying ample water. An appropriately sized shell in good condition allows invasion of inland environments offering more shade, food and fresh water for C. clypeatus studied on Curacao. Hermit crabsRead More →