Hermit+Crab+(Example)



Hermit Crabs are not true crabs. These soft-bodied crabs find empty snail shells to shelter themselves, which is why they are called "hermit" crabs. As they grow, they must find larger shells to hold their bodies. There are both marine and land hermit crabs. In the United States, there are two species of hermit crabs. These crabs are known as the Carribean Crab and the Ecuadorian Crab.
 * __Background Information__**

In the wild, land hermit crabs are omnivores, which means that they eat land and plant matter. When they are kept as pets, land hermit crabs can be fed special pellets that can be bought at a pet food store. Hermit crabs like to eat a variety of foods, so it is okay to feed them fresh foods in addition to the pelleted food from the pet store. Hermit crabs eat almost any fruit and vegetable, but they do not like acidic fruits or starchy vegetables as much. Hermit crabs also need a lot of calcium to protect their exoskeleton, but it is not safe to feed them dairy products. Calcium supplements can be purchased for hermit crabs at the pet store. Hermit crabs also need water. Some hermit crabs drinks both salt and fresh water. If the hermit crab is a Carribean hermit crab, they prefer to bathe themselves in salt water. Ecuadorian crabs like fresh water.
 * __Feeding__**

To house a hermit crab, you need a special tank. Glass or plastic tanks are good choices for hermit crabs as long as they have lids. A 10 gallon tank is a good size for the crab to roam, and it also gives enough space to add additional crabs. Hermit crabs like to be in groups, so if you can get a few of them, it is better than keeping them in isolation. Using sand to fill the bottom of the tank provides the crabs with a place to burrow and dig. The hermit crab likes to be kept at a temperature of 72-80 degrees F. It is also important to have the necessary cage furnishing, including something to climb on, a food bowl and a water dish.
 * __Environment__**

No vaccinations are available for hermit crabs. Because they are potential carriers of infectious diseases, owners should be sure to wash their hands after they have touched their hermit crab.
 * __Vaccinations__**

Midwest Bird and Exotic Animal Hospital, Located in Elmwood Park, IL
 * __A local veterinarian who will care for the animal__**