Hermit Crab Instructions

Hermit crabs might seem like strange pets, but they can make ideal companions for people seeking a low-maintenance friend. Crabs are not completely self-sufficient; they require basic care and feeding, which makes them ideal pets for teaching young children responsibility and accompanying a student at college. They might not play fetch or go for walks, but they provide their own brand of entertainment as they crawl and climb around their habitat.

Things You'll Need

  • Small glass aquarium with lid
  • Sand
  • Rocks and driftwood
  • Two small dishes
  • Sponge
  • Hermit crab food
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Instructions

    • 1

      Prepare a habitat for your hermit crab. A small aquarium with a lid works well. Place several inches of sand in the bottom. Make it deep enough to allow the hermit crab to burrow.

    • 2

      Decorate the habitat with small stones and driftwood. These add beauty and provide your hermit crab with something to climb on. You can also use aquarium plants and decorations to add variety. Hermit crabs will take advantage of whatever toys you provide them.

    • 3

      Provide your crab with food and water. Place two small bowls in the habitat. In one bowl, put a sponge soaked with water. Put hermit crab pellets in the other bowl. Food can be easily obtained at your local pet store. You can also feed your crab very small amounts of human food such as apples and raisins as a treat. Keep the environment moist and humid. Spray the inside of the habitat with a water bottle at least twice a day.

    • 4

      Provide a variety of shells placed around the habitat. As your hermit crab grows, it will choose a different shell to move into.

    • 5

      Give your hermit crab company. Crabs are social creatures by nature, and they appreciate having a neighbor to socialize with. Add a crab that is similar in size to avoid aggression problems.