Hermit Crabs

Pet hermit crabs are all the rage. Sadly accurate care information is not readily available. The stores selling hermit crabs often know nothing of caring for them or are using far outdated methods. As part of a larger hermit crabbing community I do my part to educate people about these fascinating pets so that they will live a full life and thrive in captivity.

Hermit crabs can live 70 years in the wild and at least 30 years in captivity if properly cared for. These are not easy, throwaway pets even though that is how they are marketed. Often targeting small children with garishishly painted or decorated shells. The child cares more about the shell than the creature living inside.

Land hermit crabs are from the decapod family and have modified gills that allow them to live on land but only in a humid environment. Recreating a tropical environment for them is the first step in providing a proper habitat. Using natural items to decorate the tank is another important step. An all natural diet is important too. Hermit crabs eat a wide, wide variety of foods in the wild. They scavenge on the beach to do their part in keeping beaches clean.

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You've filled the pool and broken out the flip flops, there's lemonade in the fridge and the ice cream truck is coming down the street. You've got everything checked off on your summer list from Beach Ball to Water Balloons but there is something that may not be on your list. Something many crabber's forget about . Before you run out the door stop and check the stats in your crabitat.
With summer temps on the rise it's time to check your tank to make sure you are not overheating your little babies. Checking the air temperature is not enough, it is vital that you check the substrate temperature regularly to make sure it is not too hot. Depending on where you live and how you cool your home you may not need a heat source at all in the summer. If your home is cooled by air conditioning you will most likely still need some added warmth in the tank. If you require no additional heat source, be sure to change your overhead bulbs to a very low wattage. Your hermies need their light year round! Check the location of your tank and ensure the air conditioning is not blowing directly on your tank or you will cause wildly fluctuating temperatures inside the tank.

For additional information on Crabitat overheating check out the article that Marie wrote.