Hermit crabs are HANDS OFF pets!

Hermit crabs are very sensitive animals that need to stay inside a regulated habitat at all times! They need the proper heat and humidity all the time. Hermit crabs have modified gills that need a constant regulation of temperature and humidity; otherwise they can suffocate or receive long term gill damage. This means a hermit crab should never leave their habitat. They should not be placed in carrier cages, or taken out and “played with.” When they run around or “race” they are searching for shelter! 

Your house does not have the proper moisture to keep their gills wet!

Hermit crabs are naturally prey animals, which means they have evolved to be cautious and wary of potential threats. In the wild, they are constantly on the lookout for predators and rely on their shells for protection. Because of this instinct, handling hermit crabs can be a stressful experience for them. When picked up or held, they may feel vulnerable and scared, as they perceive it as a threat to their safety. It’s important to minimize handling to keep their stress levels low and ensure they feel secure in their environment.

This means that hermit crabs are HANDS OFF pets!