How to Choose Hermit Crab Shells
A hermit crab grows like any other pet. When it grows out of its old shell, it will need a new one. A hermit crab's home is its shell, so you will need to provide a new shell for your crab to move into. A hermit crab can be surprisingly picky about the shell it lives in, so you will need to give it a good selection of shells from which to choose.
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Instructions
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Purchase or beach comb for a large variety of shells to offer your hermit crab. Use shells that are slightly larger than the crab's current home. Different shapes have different attractions for hermit crabs, so provide a variety. A hermit crab will move when its old shell is too small and it needs a roomier home.
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Find shells with a variety of shapes for the opening. Some shells have a round opening, some have openings shaped like the letter D, and others have oval openings. Depending on its breed, your crab will probably prefer a shell with a similar opening to its current home, but give it choices just in case it wants a new type.
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Inspect the shells before you give them to your crab. If there are holes or cracks in the shell, discard it. A shell that is not secure will not hold moisture, so it is not an ideal hermit crab home. Choose only solid and secure shells for your crab.
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Purchase only natural shells for your crab, or use shells you find on the beach. Many pet stores sell shells for hermit crabs that have been painted or that have decals or items glued onto them. These can all flake off and could effect your crab's health.
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Place all the new shells in a pot and fill it with water. Put the pot on the stove and allow the water and shells to boil for five minutes. Drain the shells and allow them to cool before putting them in your hermit crab environment. Boiling the shells will kill any viruses or parasites that might adversely affect your hermit crab.
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References
- Photo Credit Hermit Crab image by Bobbybigfish from Fotolia.com
