HERMIT CRABS - THE PERFECT PET FOR BUSY TEENS AND ADULTS

If you're looking for a starter pet that doesn't require a large backyard space, then you should consider getting a hermit crab. Hermit crabs are small animals that can live in tanks, and they don't need a lot of daily maintenance and attention. 

In this guide, we will discuss the benefits of owning a hermit crab, and we will provide you with all the information you need to take care of these amazing creatures! 

A disclaimer first before we begin, Hermit crabs are pets that are better to look at than touch. We would not recommend these pets for children under the age of 10 or children who can't understand their unique care needs. Just like our rabbit care guide, Wallington's WRG highly recommends doing your research first and having a conversation with your child about caring for delicate creatures.  

HERMIT CRAB HOME SET UP 

Before starting your pet owner journey, it is important to collect everything you will need beforehand. Here is a comprehensive list of items you will need.  

  • 1. Glass Aquarium Tank between 37 & 75 litres (about the volume of a mini-fridge). The walls must be high enough for the hermit crabs to be unable to climb out.  
  • 2. Hermit crab friendly substrate.  
  • 3. Water Conditioner for both fresh and saltwater 
  • 4. Sea salt - To create your own saltwater 
  • 5. Three bowls of food, drinking water and saltwater 
  • 6. Sea Sponges 
  • 7. Additional Shells - for growing crabs to find better fit homes 
  • 8. A Hygrometer - To help the humidity levels inside the tank 
  • 9. A Heat Source - Reptile lamp with a low wattage 
  • 10. Decorations - Something to climb on and explore 
  • 11. Food 

A hermit crabs diet is of the utmost importance. Not only is it central to their overall health but it is also a mental enrichment. Hermit crabs in the wild partake in what they call beachcombing for their food. This is when they crawl along a beach and eat whatever they find. This is what makes them omnivorous. It is a good idea to rotate their food often in order to keep them entertained in this act. You can feed them smaller portions of meats such as fish or chicken, as well as fruit and vegetables that have been cleaned in non-chlorinated water (This is very important!). Wallington's WRG also has a wide range of frozen bloodworms available that make for an excellent meal as they will get the meat & water as the item starts to melt.  

A very key part of their diet is actually calcium. This helps the hermit crabs generate their exoskeleton for when they shed their bodies. It's very easy to keep their calcium levels up by leaving a piece of cuttlebone in their tank to let them nibble away on as they please.  

The final necessary step is having two water sources at all times. You need to have a supply of freshwater along with a source of saltwater. Please do not just add table salt to the water. It's best to stick with Blue Planet's hermit crab salt. Its created specifically for them.  

Now that you know the basics of owning a hermit crab, head on over to our website where you'll find all the necessary pieces to put together a wonderful home for your new crabby critters. You can also visit us at 370 Grubb Road, Wallington and chat with our pet experts.