By: Jessica Valderrama
Why Hermit Crabs Leave Their Shells and How to Help Them Re-Shell
Hermit crabs rely on their shells for two critical purposes: protecting their soft abdomen and preventing drying out. If a hermit crab abandons its shell, it signals distress. This blog post explores common causes of this behavior and provides a step-by-step guide to help a hermit crab return to its shell safely.
Why Hermit Crabs Leave Their Shells
Physical Stress
Hermit crabs often endure inhumane treatment during capture, transport, and while in pet stores. Poor handling, dehydration, and hunger can severely weaken them, sometimes leading to the abandonment of their shell.
Shell Jacking
A lack of suitable shells in the crabitat can result in shell fights. Hermit crabs may forcibly remove others from their shells or take an abandoned shell while another crab switches shells. Without a replacement shell, the displaced crab is left vulnerable.
Discomfort
Sand, pests, or food particles can irritate a hermit crab’s soft abdomen. This discomfort may cause the crab to abandon its shell.
Incorrect Environment
Hermit crabs are sensitive to temperature and humidity
• High temperatures (above 90°F) can cause overheating, prompting the crab to leave its shell.
• Low humidity (below 70%) can make them feel like they are suffocating.
• High humidity (above 90%) can cause difficulty breathing and lead to gill damage.
How to Help a Hermit Crab Re-Shell
Step 1: Prepare the Shell
1. Wash your hands thoroughly or wear gloves to avoid transferring chemicals and contaminants.
2. Rinse or boil the abandoned shell in dechlorinated water to remove possible irritants. Shake it gently to dislodge anything in it.
3. Pour out most of the water but leave the shell slightly moist inside.
Step 2: Create a Safe Environment
1. Place the prepared shells in a coffee cup or bowl depending on the size of crab) with two additional shells of similar size.
2. Add 2 tablespoons of dechlorinated water to the bottom of the container to maintain humidity and keep abdomen moist.
3. Cover the container with a damp washcloth to create a dark, quiet environment.
Step 3: Gently Examine the Crab
1. If the crab is not molting, gently spoon him up with a spoon.
2. Inspect the abdomen for signs of irritation and pests or lethargy.
Step 4: Encourage Re-Shelling
1. Place the crab next to its prepared shell inside the container. Leave the crab undisturbed for at least an hour. If it doesn’t re-shell, transfer it to a slightly larger container, such as a kritter keeper.
Step 5: Provide Nutritional Support
1. Offer high-energy foods like green sand, worm castings, calcium, or eggs.
2. If the crab is lethargic, use a toothpick or spoon to offer a small amount of honey or energy mix. Avoid forcing the crab to eat.
Step 6: Monitor and Wait
1. Maintain proper heat (75-85°F) and humidity (75-85%) in the tank.
2. If the crab still doesn’t re-shell, continue providing food and water while keeping it comfortable.
Special Care for Molting Crabs
If the crab is molting or recently molted:
1. Use a clean container, such as a container bowl, with small holes for ventilation, or kritter keeper
2. Scoop the crab gently, ensuring it remains supported.
3. Add its abandoned shell and two other shell options to the container, but do not add water.
4. Include its shed exoskeleton no food till he eats all of it.
5. Isolate the container within the crabitat to protect the crab from tank mates.
Helping a hermit crab return to its shell requires patience, proper care, and attention to its environment. By addressing the root cause of the behavior and providing a safe, supportive space, you can give your hermit crab the best chance to recover and thrive.
For more tips on hermit crab care, check out our other blog posts!
