🕷️ Exotics

Hermit Crab

Social shell-swappers that need more than a cage.

Land hermit crabs are social, long-lived crustaceans when kept properly. They need warmth, high humidity, deep sand for molting and spare shells.

Lifespan15–30+ years (with proper care)
SizeTiny · 1–6 in
Care levelModerate
Typical cost$15–30 / month
Great for
Patient keepersWatching more than handlingSocialNocturnalShy
Hermit Crab

Photo: ZooFari · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Care guide

Daily care

20+ gallon tank with 6+ inches of sand, 75–85°F, 70–80% humidity, fresh and salt water pools.

Varied diet of fruits, vegetables, proteins and calcium.

Climbing décor.

Provide extra shells of several sizes.

Health

Common health concerns

Know what to watch for. Early detection makes most of these far easier and cheaper to treat.

  • Molting stress
  • Mites
  • Dehydration
  • Shell fights
Veterinary care

Vet visits

Few vets treat crabs — proper habitat is the best medicine.

Find a vet near me

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This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. Costs are rough U.S. estimates for food, supplies and routine care. Always consult a licensed veterinarian about your pet’s needs.