How to care for Aussie Hermit Crabs

When you first get your Aussie Hermit Crab home he will probably be thirsty, hungry and scared. He may not come out of his shell at first. To get him out place him in the palm of your hand and gently breathe on him. The warm air will encourage him to come out and have a look around.

Remember he is a Land Hermit Crab and must not be placed in an aquarium full with water as he will drown.

During the warmer months sand or shell grit are best in the bottom of his home. This can be changed to ‘Pet Sawdust’ during the cooler months or alternatively a bedside type lamp with a 40 watt coloured globe can be placed on top of his container to keep him warm and comfortable.

Aussie Hermit Crabs like to climb, therefore if they are not housed in a ‘Crab Tank’ a lid should be kept on his tank. They are such good climbers that they will climb the silicone in the corners of aquariums. A piece of driftwood keeps them entertained and they will spend many hours climbing and just ‘hanging out’ on the wood. Aussie Hermit Crabs also enjoy climbing and sleeping on sea sponges.

It is a good idea to have spare shells in your crabs home as Aussie Hermit Crabs like to change their shells and spend some time checking out what’s available in the new home area..

Aussie Hermit Crab Pellets provide a basic diet for your crab, however, they do enjoy special treats such as fruit, meat, chicken bones, etc. Remember to remove any treats before they go off. Occasionally you may like to soften Aussie Hermit Crab Pellets in warm water before giving them to your crab. This way it will make it much easier to eat and tastier for your crab. Once again wet pellets must be replaced daily.

If your crab’s home is large enough it is best to have two containers of water, one containing salt water and the other fresh water. If your crabs home isn’t large enough for the two containers then alternate his water supply every second day so that he can get both fresh and salt water regularly.

Mix your Aussie Hermit Crab Salt one teaspoon of salt to one litre of water. This can be stored in a clean soft drink bottle until needed.

At least once a year your Aussie Hermit Crab will shed his body shell (smaller crabs tend to shed more often). You may find his discarded shell and think that he has died. In fact, he probably has buried himself deep in the bottom of his home and will stay hidden until his new shell has hardened. This can take anywhere up to about four weeks. During this time do not disturb him as he is very fragile. You may not see him during this time however, keep up a supply of fresh food and water as he may come out at night to eat and drink.

Aussie Hermit Crabs live happily alone but you will notice they are more active when more than one are together. Aussie Hermit Crabs are naturally friendly yet shy. They can nip, however they seldom do unless hurt or frightened. Don’t be too rough with them or shout at them. If you always speak gently to them they will get used to your voice and won’t be afraid when handled. When holding your Aussie Hermit Crab be very careful not to drop him as he can be damaged or killed.

Aussie Hermit Crabs have a very long life span between fifty to one hundred years. They can be trained to respond to your voice by speaking gently and offering them treats.

Treat him gently; provide food, water, spare shells, and a clean warm environment and you will have a happy healthy pet for many years.