How to Build a Hermit Crab Terrarium

Hermit crabs are among the most popular pets in the world for young children. Harmless, inexpensive and easy to care for, these little animals are ideal pets for inexperienced beginners. Not requiring a ton of space, hermit crabs can live in simple environments that include sand, water bowls, plastic trees, and other items. A cage or a terrarium can be purchased, but building your own homemade terrarium is also a viable option.

Things You'll Need

  • Chicken wire, 58x16 inches
  • Litter pan, 15x12 inches
  • 4 wooden posts, 16 inches high
  • Super glue
  • Wooden board, 16x12 inches
  • Twisty ties
  • Sand
  • Dish
  • Natural sponge
  • Wooden logs and other cage furniture
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Instructions

    • 1

      Glue each wooden post to each inside corner of the litter pan, pointing upwards.

    • 2

      Wrap the chicken wire around the four posts, creating a fence around the litter pan. Glue the chicken wire together where it meets or use twisty ties.

    • 3

      Fill the litter pan with sand, creating a layer about an inch thick.

    • 4

      Place the empty water dish in the center of the pan.

    • 5

      Run the sponge under a faucet, allowing it to soak up some water, and place it in the dish. This will serve as the crab's lagoon. Do not give them a dish of water without the sponge because the crabs might drown themselves.

    • 6

      Scatter some cage furniture, like wooden logs or plastic plants, around the cage. Hermit crabs enjoy climbing, so use large pieces that can support their weight.

    • 7

      Set the wooden plank atop the cage, letting it rest on the wooden posts. This will be the lid. When not observing your crabs, make sure you put a book or some other type of weight atop it to prevent escape.