Hermit Crabs
Hermit crabs get their name from the fact that they prefer living in borrowed shells. These crabs do not belong to the true crab family and are increasingly sought after as pets by many people around the world. They are fun to own and a joy to take care of. It is highly recommended for those who are planning on getting hermit crabs as pets to know a few facts about hermit crabs.
Hermit crabs are found in a riot of different colours such as orange, red and brown. Most of them feature spots on their bodies in purple color and look very attractive. Hermit crabs usually molt once in eighteen months and during this process shed their exoskeleton and grow another one. They have a total of ten leg joints and a couple of claws in the front. Their abdomen is soft and vulnerable.
Hermit crabs live in shells that they borrow from other sea creatures. They choose the right size of shell, live in it until they outgrow and then come out to look for a larger one. As a hermit crab owner, you must ensure there are a variety of shells of different sizes in their cage for them to choose from if they have to move out of their present ones.
Ocean is the hermit crabs natural wild habitat. Some of them like the land hermit crab live on land too. Many efforts to breed them in captivity have failed. Younger crabs molt frequently as compared to the adults. On an average they molt once in eighteen months.
Provide your hermit crab pets with a cage that is easy to climb as they are fond of climbing. You can also place driftwood inside their cage to help them come out of water if they want to.
One of the most striking facts about hermit crabs is that they eat just about anything you feed them with. If you do not want a faded crab post molting, then it is highly recommended to feed them with a diet rich in carotene and calcium. Other foods they eat include fish, fresh fruits, vegetables and meat. You can also occasionally treat hermit crabs with foods such as raisins, popcorn, tuna fish, peanut butter, crackers, potato chips and grapes.
In captivity, hermit crabs live for even fifteen years. Being nocturnal creatures, they tend to make a lot of noise during night time. It is therefore a good idea keeping them away from your bedroom.
Hermit crabs are adorable pets that are entertaining and low on maintenance. It is essential maintaining hygiene by cleaning their cage on a frequent basis. Maintain the temperature in the tank between 70 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
Once a month, make sure to clean the tank by removing the gravel and rinsing it without soap. Be sure to set up the crabarium once again after it dries completely.
Hermit crabs can be trained by just holding out your hand and allowing it to crawl on it. The more you play with them the faster they get acquainted with you. Pick them up holding the back part of the shell to ensure they do not pinch by holding on to your hand.
