How to Correctly Hold a Hermit Crab

When cared for properly, hermit crabs have the potential to live 6 to 15 years, reports Petplace.com. An important part of crab care is understanding the proper way to hold a hermit crab since you will need to remove it from its habitat to bathe it or give the cage a good cleaning. All hermit crabs react differently to being handled, but with the proper procedure, you can avoid getting pinched or harming your crab.

Things You'll Need

  • Thin gloves made from any type of material (optional)
  • Hermit crab habitat or terrarium
  • Soft surface (e.g. bed or sofa)
  • Hermit crab
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Instructions

    • 1

      Put on gloves if you choose to wear them. You can handle a hermit crab without gloves, but if you are nervous about being pinched, the gloves may help you relax.

    • 2

      Ensure that your crab's habitat is near a soft surface like a bed or chair.

    • 3

      Remove the lid from your hermit crab's habitat or terrarium.

    • 4

      Locate your hermit crab inside of the habitat in order to know where to reach. Crabs like to dig and hide under toys and rocks, so it may take a moment to locate yours.

    • 5

      Reach inside and grasp your hermit crab by the back of its shell. Ensure your hand is behind the crab as much as possible.

    • 6

      Lift your hermit crab out of its habitat, moving slowly to avoid startling it.

    • 7

      Hold out your other hand, palm side up, over the soft surface. Check your distance to the surface, ensuring that if you drop the crab, it will land on the surface.

    • 8

      Place the crab in your hand, keeping your palm outstretched. Avoid cupping your hand too much as your crab may feel threatened and pinch.

    • 9

      Keep your eyes on your hermit crab at all times to ensure the crab does not fall off the side of your hand. Hold the crab as long as you wish.

    • 10

      Grab the crab by the back of its shell once more. Keep your fingers safely behind the shell as much as possible.

    • 11

      Place the crab gently back into its habitat and replace the lid.