The Behavior of a Hermit Crab

A hermit crab is a common household pet that is easy to care for with its small manageable size and habitat. Each hermit crab can vary slightly in demeanor, but there are general behavior characteristics of hermit crabs.

  1. Eating Habits

    • Hermit crabs consume most food that humans eat. These can include vegetables, fruit, rice and meat. You can also purchase specialty treats and food at your local fish supply store.

    Nocturnal Activity

    • Hermit crabs are predominantly nocturnal creatures, so you need to make sure there is plenty of food and water in their tank before you go to bed for the night.

    Social Interaction

    • Most hermit crabs are social creatures and thrive better in a habitat with other hermit crabs. It is common for hermit crabs to crawl on top of each other, push each other around or touch each other with their feelers when they are getting to know the other crabs.

    Shyness

    • Hermit crabs that have lived for a period of time in a pet store may be slightly traumatized when placed in a new environment. If your crab hides in his shell and refuses to interact with you or other animals in the tank, give it time to feel comfortable and quite literally come out of its shell.

    Hostility

    • In rare circumstances, hermit crabs can become hostile if they feel threatened or uncomfortable in their surroundings. Observe your crab for a tell-tale chirping noise that indicates its displeasure.