How to Choose a Pet Hermit Crab

Although their name suggests otherwise, hermit crabs are social creatures and can make great family pets. They do not have their own hard covering and use leftover snail shells for protection. When choosing hermit crabs, there are a few key things to consider.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Research hermit crabs and make sure you have the time to take care of one and the resources to provide them with their essential needs.

2. Consider the start-up costs of owning hermit crabs. In addition to their housing needs, hermit crabs also require food, heat, sponges and other supplies. Make sure you can afford to purchase the necessities.

3. Visit pet stores to look for hermit crabs. Find one that has a wide variety of hermit crab products and keeps their hermit crabs in suitable habitats.

4. Determine how many hermit crabs you can accommodate. Hermit crabs are social creatures and do best in groups. Plan to buy at least two.

5. Consider the ages and size of the members of your family who will be interacting with the hermit crabs. They do pinch and the bigger the crab, the harder the pinch.

6. Ask the pet store to get the crabs out so you can see how they act. Watch them and see which crabs appear more social and active. Look for ones willing to come out of their shells.

7. Pick the crabs that are the size you want and have the personality you are looking for.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure the hermit crabs you are purchasing have received the proper care and appear healthy.
• Hermit crabs do pinch. Always supervise young children when handling hermit crabs.
• Don't purchase a pet hermit crab that shows signs of illness or has a bad odor.