Hermit Crab Shells 101

[@digitalflightworks8751]

My daughter got 2 hermit crabs as a birthday gift from her friends and quickly lost interest in them. I felt sorry for the little creatures so i adopted them but had know idea how to care for them. Then I found this great channel! I and especially my hermit crabs thank you for all the great information.

[@Daesgamingroom]

R they still alive?

[@orange6105]

@@Daesgamingroom I don't understand how people Get pets randomly And Not know how to take care of them

[@CrabCentralStation]

It's true research should be done ahead of time, we learned that the hard way. We trusted the store selling the pet.... lesson learned.

[@orange6105]

@@CrabCentralStation me to I Learned The hard Way I use to have 2 trutles But since I was young I didn't buy them a proper Tank So they lived in a fish bowl with No heater and No filter I'm a little bit More mature I think But I still feel bad about there life

[@CrabCentralStation]

I would love to care for a tortoise one day 🥰... doing my research ahead of time this time though!

[@MissSunriseDawn]

Thank you for this! I unexpectedly rescued two hermit crabs a little over a month ago, and had no clue how to care for them. They came to me in a 10 gallon tank with a thin layer of gravel, a bowl with nothing in it except a dry sponge, some pellet food (which I've not used since the first day), and a mist trainer. I'm working on getting them what they need. They now have two "pools" (fresh and saltwater), sand and coconut fiber added to the gravel (I now know that the gravel has to come out but one of the crabs went down a weeks ago and I'm waiting for him to come back up to change the substrate), I added 2 more shells (and they don't like either of them), and switched to feeding them fruits, veggies, and egg w/eggshell (their favorite, with carrots and bananas coming next). I just got a bunch more shells (various sizes), which is what brought me to this video. They've now been boiled and are cooling down. My 5 year old daughter named the crabs Ariel (the largest one - she's a purple pincher (think that's what you said it's called)) and Sebastien (I think he's an Ecuadorian). I found y'all the first day we had our crabs, and also some very helpful Facebook groups. (Every single group I joined mentioned this channel!) I've made several mistakes along the way, but I'm really trying to make Ariel and Sebastien's lives better! Every year, my parents get us all one big Christmas gifts along with several smaller ones. The shells I just got are an early gift from them, and for my big gift I've asked for a bigger tank for my little guys. Hoping I get it! Thank you all so much for the info you put out here!

[@emmyu3380]

Let me just say, I absolutely loveeeee your channel! It is so helpful and a great guide to new hermit crab owners like me! I clicked on this video 16 minutes ago not knowing anything about shells except to not get the varnished and painted ones and I learned a ton! You are a lifesaver thank you!

[@CrabCentralStation]

Thank you so much! Sorry for the late reply, for some reason KZbin held your comment as spam! It should be fixed now. :)

[@josephtomlinson7186]

Mrs Darcy. Thank you so much for this video. This “shell jacking” just happened with my hermit crabs. I kept hearing a “hissing” and couldn’t figure out what was going on. I saw one hermit crab on the other but didn’t really pay attention. After a few days I separated them. I waited because I thought it was just natural. I never knew about three shells per hermit crab. Off to Amazon I go!!

[@CrabCentralStation]

I'm so glad this video helped you! Thank you for watching, learning, and loving you hermit crabs!

[@zombieluv602]

I 2nd the Shell Store for Hermit shells. I was just at their Largo shop location a week ago and got a store tour. Very friendly and passionate about what they do.

[@Whammytap]

I heard a story about a guy who saw that wild hermit crabs were living in pieces of trash, since humans remove shells from beaches and leave trash. So he started collecting trash and leaving shells. The way it was described implied that he offered appropriate shells to crabs that were living in plastic cups or something, and the crabs "moved houses" quickly enough for him to take away the trash that had just been moved out of. I have no idea if this is true or not, but it's nice to think about.

[@jcchang87]

Omg you just saved my hermits crabs life! I got a neon one and I’m getting new natural shells so yeah thank you so much I just can’t not believe how I didn’t think about this Bc I was a beginner and they weren’t active at all so thank you for helping me love your channel 🦀🥰😀😁😃 Happy New Years Eve :>

[@CrabCentralStation]

We are so glad we could help!

[@luzmoreno4511]

Could you please make a video explaining more about the prime

[@The_Bible_Girl7]

I had no idea how to measure and the different types of shells and which ones they would like and not like! Thanks for this amazing info!! You are such an amazing person Darcy!

[@CrabCentralStation]

Thank you so much! You are too kind! Glad we I could help! -Darcy

[@christinaaa_xo]

Another great video! Just a couple of hours ago I added about 6 shells to their enclosure, and already one changed! I just got them yesterday, and it was one of the painted shells that it left for a natural shell!! I am so excited!! Had I not watched these videos, that crab would still be it's in old shell and unhappy.

[@CrabCentralStation]

Wonderful!!! We are so glad our videos are helping you on your hermie journey!

[@victoriaivette7319]

I just got two hermit crabs and I’m excited to care for them , thank you for your videos, they helped so much! I had no idea the painted shells were bad! I love my hermies and you guys help make their crabitat better thanks to your videos !

[@CrabCentralStation]

Yay! Thank you so much for joining us at CCS! We're so glad our videos are helping you and your crabbies!

[@Petopiaa]

Can I use some from the beach? 🐚 I used to clllect then and I thought they would love those! ❤😊

[@brendaadams4796]

If you take shells from the beach you may potentially be leaving another Kermit to have to live in a piece of plastic. Don't you get it?

[@hobbyhobbyhobbyhobby]

you really have a video for everything haha youre saving me at every turn

[@PresleeandHenryshow]

I would like to say thank you for putting out all this video. When I got my crabs I didn't know anything. I slowly started to learn. And than I found you. When I first got thes crabs they didn't move and didn't do much at all. Now oh may there all over the place and that wheel lol they do love it. Best buy. You talked about measuring crabs in there shells that tuck up in but my one crab never goes in and was a handful to measure. Sadly I dropped him not far but it has me up set he's moving around again but it scared me. Thank you so much.

[@CrabCentralStation]

I'm so glad our videos are helping you to help your hermit crabs have their best life! I love these kinds of stories. Some crabs will make shell measuring very challenging, that's for sure!

[@CheleGreysky]

I love that idea of putting a second enclosure upside down on top of another enclosure to create more 'upspace'! I may do that so that I can also hang a macrame shell shop in with my little ones.

[@CrabCentralStation]

They will LOVE it!

[@chrisattiliis3705]

When offering new growth shells, do the openings of the new shell need to be exposed, facing up, for the crab to access them or will they turn the shells over, move them around, etc to access and find the one they want?

[@myjam4095]

thank you so much for these awesome vids for helping my hermit crabs!! i love them so much and i want them to be comfortble in there new home:)

[@CrabCentralStation]

Thanks for watching!

[@squrtile100]

11:00 *in the tank to the left* "oh why hello there nice to see you"

[@biohazard9410]

where?

[@Petopiaa]

I want to save 3 or more from their painted shellls in petco😊 thanks for ur channel! It’s hard to find people that care about them as good as you 3!!

[@rebeccar19]

Hello! I am so glad I found your channel. I kept hermit crabs about 9 years ago and I had some idea on how to care for them. But your channel has taught me so much more. I recently rescued 4 hermit crabs from a beach store and set them up in our tank at home. I reluctantly got one in a painted shell for my daughter. She really wanted it and I thought I could go ahead and get it and then use it as a teaching opportunity for what a crab needs. It was in a painted turbo shell. I offered it several others in similar size and shape. But, finally, after a week, it changed to a babylonian shell. I immediately removed the painted shell. However, it does seem too big for the shell it chose and doesn't look very comfortable. I have ordered more shells that are coming very soon. Should I be concerned I might end up with a naked crab?

[@CrabCentralStation]

I’m sorry I missed your comment! How are things going now?

[@kristenwilson2141]

Thank you for all your videos if it wasn’t for y’all my crabs wouldnt have changed shells and have molted perfectly! Thank you!!!!!

[@CrabCentralStation]

You’re welcome! Thanks for watching

[@lm5585sysmatrix]

Great stuff!

[@tonyamiller4956]

Thank you so much for all these helpful tips!❤

[@carolyn6830]

Hey CCS! I just wanted to quickly thank you for this video! I was in desperate need of some new growth shells, so thank you for providing great resources! I just got the new shells today and the crab is already thinking of trying some on!

[@CrabCentralStation]

Yay! Awesome!!! Let’s go little buddy, find some new pants!!!

[@twistysunshine]

I think the shell measuring stuff was super helpful!!

[@CrabCentralStation]

Yay so glad to hear that!

[@crazypetsyt.9579]

Sorry I’ve been busy for a few days but thanks for the video! It was helpful

[@itskittybee8752]

Hello past me....

[@BlazeTice-i3e]

I need shells and a buddy for mine. So thank u so much for helping me with shells. I have to go get some.

[@fabi8675]

Thank you for making these kinds of videos! Unfortunately one of my rescued hermit crab past away two months ago, due to his painted shell. For some reason it took him longer than the other hermit crab to switch to a safe shell. I did what it’s suggested, and had to buy a hermit crab to keep the lonely hermit crab company (even though I don’t believe we should BUY hermit crabs) 🙂

[@CrabCentralStation]

Thanks for sharing! We also, sadly, had this problem as well. Hopefully one day, the industry can be overturned!

[@Hnikkigrace2003]

Good editing guys! Yay what a great vid!

[@Bensmama1]

Thank you!! This explanation was very thorough and easy to understand. ♥️

[@CrabCentralStation]

Thank you!

[@christinabreitbeck2616]

If I put a pile of 10 shells in a container as a “shell shack” are they able to dig through to browse them all?

[@NoahSiplyarsky]

So apparently 1 of my hermit crabs are a different way too bold. On the first day I got him he immediately changed shells, then he ran around the whole tank, made a mess, and started to climb my arm when I was fixing a falling peice of wood in their tank. While his friend is a shy crab.

[@doctordeath.5716]

I have not seen that old cartoon show in a long time, if I remember correctly that cartoon was a hanna barbeara who made it.

[@CrabCentralStation]

We love strawberry shortcake! Such a nostalgic show for us

[@thegrump7240]

I rescued some hermit crabs a few weeks ago from a pet co that was cramped with like a 5 gallon tank and gravel and I find all my shells and just boil it then put it in when it’s cooled down

[@hermitcrabsanolesterrarium5433]

I rescued a crab his name is Elmo the pet of hade a 15 gallon though

[@CrabCentralStation]

Elmo, cute!

[@CheleGreysky]

My philosopher crab (which I call until it has a name) has one of those awkward shells with the long bit on the end. I often find that one propped up somewhere diagonally just chilling with only the corners of the shell touching any surface. This is the crab that sits on top of the tunnelling sand just keeping watch when one of the other crabs has buried itself. I think this one may be an esoteric master of some kind. This is by far the most active crab in my crabitat.

[@CheleGreysky]

This one used to have the pretty spikes on the shell but has removed them all. Maybe just offer the spikey shells anyway incase they like the interior and the opening because the spikes might be something they see as snacks they can carry around with them.

[@CrabCentralStation]

Sure, you can definitely offer them, and you are right, some crabs may take the shells. They are safe, as we said in the video, they just aren't commonly worn. So, if you want to offer them (and good point, they can eat them for extra calcium!), make sure you also offer several choices in shells that are more commonly accepted. This will help you avoid a crab going naked.

[@markfranklin8831]

This video gave really great information thanks for sharing 💯✌️👍😊

[@CrabCentralStation]

GREAT! I'm so glad our channel was able to help you on your journey! Thanks for joining us!

[@CrabStreetJournal]

Great job as always and so helpful!!

[@CrabCentralStation]

Thanks!!

[@Link-cb5ro]

I bought mine from a pet store. The pet store had NO idea what type of crab they were. I have no idea either. I keep the tank at 80 degrees F and just added filters and bubbler's to the water pools. They are just no very active. I even feed them fresh veggies and shrimp every night. What should I do? IK at least 3 are below the sand either molting or hiding all at the same time. There were no fish smells or anything yet.

[@CrabCentralStation]

Hello Link! As you crabs acclimate to your tank conditions they will become more active!

[@teresawhiteindependentscen4238]

Can you please tell me when you get the shell hammocks? The one behind you over your right shoulder.

[@CrabCentralStation]

I'm sorry.... I really don't remember 🤔🤪

[@khalidvip6943]

I just received hermit crab shells. Is it necessary to add chlorine to the water while boiling, or is the water enough?

[@게부자-h9x]

I need help with the shells. I followed your video advice and now have ample supply of shells. Our one hermit crab is too big for his shell. He nibbles on other shells, as if he’s going to change into them, then loses interest. He can’t fully fit inside his current shell. We’ve offered both round and D opening shells. He’s in a magpie shell, we even shells just like the one he is in larger size. Still no interest in changing. What am I doing wrong?

[@CrabCentralStation]

Unfortunately there is no way to make hermit crabs change shells. Our job as their care takers is to make sure we are offering all of the resources they need. Then we just have to let them be crabs. We have a few crabs that like small shells and some that prefer big shells. Who knows why some choose one over the other? We just make sure to have enough shells in a variety of sizes at all times.

[@PatricksBasics]

hi, I have 2 purple pincher hermit crabs and about a month ago the bigger one, Coral switched shells and the smaller one, hermy took Coral's old shell, so Coral's new shell was not like one of the native purple pincher shells (indian top shell) and he was in a whale eye shell. it seemed like it fit him well but he would sometimes switch into the big turbo shell then leave a few minutes later and go into the wayyy to small hermy's old shell he would then stay in that for a day or 2 then move back into the whale eye shell for about a week then the whole process begins again. so I guess he does not really like the whale eye shell but im pretty sure it fits him well. where do you get your hermit crab shells, cause he probably hates all those shells and I don't want him to get stressed. Thanks.

[@CrabCentralStation]

Ken Lipe from The Shell Store on etsy is awesome! He has hermit crabs and knows how to measure shells and what kind are liked by hermit crabs. Go to www.theshellstore.com

[@PatricksBasics]

@@CrabCentralStation thank you so much i will check him out right now!

[@Jessmaybee]

I am thinking about getting this little guys and I had some bu they had died fast. 2 years later and so then I found this great great channal thank you so much :)

[@CrabCentralStation]

I'm so glad our videos are helping you!

[@evorareign4302]

Where do you find small shells? I went everywhere to find small shells because the shells my new crabs are in are so tiny and I know they need slightly bigger , not way bigger.

[@CrabCentralStation]

theshellstore.com/

[@juanitabolster2483]

Thankyou for your amazing achievements how incredible. Do you know where the shells are collected from? and what has happened to the creatures who lived in them?

[@CrabCentralStation]

Most of the shells sold for crafts and hermit crabs come from the food industry.

[@littlepetkingdome7492]

Could you make a video about cage diys?😊

[@CrabCentralStation]

Yes! It will be a while before that video gets made but it’s on our list!

[@kennyspringer7668]

I have a small hermit crab it just picked up and I was told not to get shells that are pointy do they have to be completely round and smooth

[@CrabCentralStation]

No, they don't have to be smooth. It's best to offer several different kinds in the correct shape and size. Your crab will pick the one they like best.

[@petcraz2417]

There is sooo much more to hermit crabs than meets the eye! Thank you!

[@CrabCentralStation]

We never in our wildest dreams imagined the type of care they required.

[@danacashion3037]

Thank you for this video. Very helpful.

[@CrabCentralStation]

Glad it was helpful!

[@thetoastyferrets]

Hi!! I love your videos so much they have definitely helped me step up my hermit crab care!! They are so happy but I do have a bit of a problem i have some very large hermit crabs. I can never find shells that are big enough, that isn't 50$, or they have some type of varnish on it! they really like the d sized opening i can always find turbo shells but I've offered them turbo shells and they never have enough room for their hole body I've looked everywhere ebay, etsy, Amazon, theshellshop, petsmart, petco, chewy, and Facebook market place. The opening has to be about 2 1/4 and have a d sized opening that has alot of space for the rest of there body. If anyone has any ideas or websites I can order from that might have something I'm looking for let me know!! Thank u!

[@CrabCentralStation]

Wow! Those are some big crab babies! You could…. Get the varnished shells and use a sander to get the varnish off. Just a thought.

[@thetoastyferrets]

@@CrabCentralStation thanks so much I have a big shell that is varnished so I'll give it a shot! Hopefully it works!

[@rayleneshaffer8997]

​@@thetoastyferretsdid it work?

[@thetoastyferrets]

​@@rayleneshaffer8997yes if you take sand paper and sand it all off u will be able to get all the varnish off just boil it in prime water after your done about 3 times to make sure u got everything off!

[@thetoastyferrets]

​@@rayleneshaffer8997I bought a shell from a beach shop for about 3 dollars took it home used sand paper to get it all off and boiled it in prime and it came out great! I've done it with a couple shells now also works with painted shells too but the paint takes longer to get off because sometimes they will put the paint in the back of the shells so u have to throw it away or take alot of time to make sure u get it all out of the shell!

[@urbexchris7485]

Where can I find large shells I've looked everywhere I need them a little bigger then a half dollar

[@CrabCentralStation]

You can try Hermit Harbor on Etsy. They are GREAT!

[@kristenwilson2141]

Are y’all going to make more videos? Y’all content is the best.

[@CrabCentralStation]

Yes! More videos on the way. Our next video is taking us a while to edit since it’s 30 minutes of footage! Trying to get it out ASAP

[@kristenwilson2141]

Yay!!!!

[@1976mcfarlane]

My friend took her kids on vacation and brought back three hermit crabs. I told her everything I learned from your channel and I sent her several videos on how the information out there is incorrect and told her to follow your directions. It's been about 2 months and two of three of the hermit crabs are dead 🤦😥. She obviously never bothered watching the videos. She kept all three in a little plastic keeper with a sponge, eating the worst food from the pet store. Ugh.

[@CrabCentralStation]

You did your best to save them! Thank you for trying!

[@dixiebecrafty221]

Thank you so very much you may have just saved there lives.

[@CrabCentralStation]

Awe! Thank you! We’re trying really hard to get the right information out there!

[@reginamills6137]

Thank you for this information.

[@CrabCentralStation]

You're welcome! Thanks for watching!

[@PitsFam]

Very informative! I have been measuring D shaped opening shells in the wrong direction 😅

[@CrabCentralStation]

Yay! Glad to help 😊

[@rofishy2]

Am I crazy for wanting to build a crabatat that’s 4x4x8 and have two decent sized ponds in it and use reef rock in the saltwater pond and lace rock for the fresh water

[@CrabCentralStation]

Crazy????? Yes! Crazy COOL! We have 10 gallon pools in our build. Keep in mind though, that we do not advise any other live animals to be housed with hermit crabs. We tried fresh water fish and it did not go well.... for the fish. Turns out crabs are good fishers! We do have live rock, live sand, coral, in our tanks.

[@bamy2911]

What kind of shells would crazy crabs (coenobita variabilis ) need?

[@CrabCentralStation]

They mostly prefer D shaped openings.

[@bamy2911]

Crab Central Station thanks!

[@j7m7m7]

The real reason why it’s called turbo is because it comes from a turban snail that makes these shells for hermit crabs

[@CrabCentralStation]

Yes! Isn't it so cool?!

[@silvermoonwcue5800]

And where do u buy your shells

[@CrabCentralStation]

We shop at www.theshellstore.com

[@dovdog]

Can you do a video of interesting hermit crab shells

[@CrabCentralStation]

Do you mean shells that are man made, like glass, 3D printed, ect?

[@terrimurray8770]

I would like to see your eco terra setup

[@CrabCentralStation]

Hi Terri Murray. Have you had a chance to see our tank reveal/crab room tour? We show our eco terra toppers in both of those videos.

[@RandallLind]

Where do you get shells above 3.5 inches? I just ordered a 3-3/5 inch one cause I think my crab Hermit want to change shells. He is getting so big. I got some 2-2.7 inch shells butt they seemed too small for him. He did change into one then a minute later switched back. I believe the shell he has is a 2-2.5 inch one. So I ordered a 3-3/5 inch one off Amazon. However any bigger I seem to have a hard time finding. I have no idea when he will stop growing. He is a purple pincher I read full size is 4 inches. Do I need to only worry about one more shell 4-4.7 or will I need larger 5-6-7 etc?

[@CrabCentralStation]

Try www.theshellstore.com

[@colinschmitt6378]

@crab central station do you know any other places I can get good/safe hermit crab shells?

[@CrabCentralStation]

We love to use theshellstore.com

[@doctordeath.5716]

I love the turquoise green turbo shell's , but my hermit crabs like all different shell's and I did not know that hermit crabs custom there shell's, I have Larned something new and if I would get a varnished shell and I am not sure how to tell because they are both shiney to me, I always boil any new shells and shell's that i have.

[@CrabCentralStation]

Yay! So glad you learned some new things. The varnished shells are difficult to tell apart. That’s why we suggest shopping at places that you don’t have to worry about getting toxic shells. We always buy from www.theshellstore.com

[@doctordeath.5716]

@@CrabCentralStation ok thank you all, i will have to check them out

[@ellie406]

My friend is giving away her hermit crabs so im taking yes i have done my research but what size tank might i need for two meideum crabs??

[@CrabCentralStation]

at least a 20 gallon! 10 gallons per crab! We would suggest having at least three crabs though. They are extremely social, and it would negatively effect the health of a crab if it only friend were to disappear for a molt! for three crabs we suggest 30 gallons!

[@tacocatlover400]

Hey C.C.S! I’ve got a question for you! I found my little dude on the side of the road. Should I release him? Or is it okay for me to keep him?

[@CrabCentralStation]

Probably a good idea to keep him. Often times people release their unwanted hermit crabs. There are only a few places in the United States that hermit crabs are native to. Check out our videos for information on how to care for your new rescue!

[@leonardotamayo8974]

Do I add prime before boiling water or during? Does it matter???

[@CrabCentralStation]

Either is fine … before or after.

[@coolcats6169]

I don’t know if you will answer but I really want to know if 3d printed shells would be ok because a friend really wants to make one but I’m not sure it’s safe :(

[@CrabCentralStation]

Hello! Although 3D printed shells would be cool and cheaper… they are not safe for crabs. Natural shells are porous and allow for a healthy oxygen exchange. 3d printed shells would not allow for this exchange.

[@coolcats6169]

@@CrabCentralStation thank you!

[@quietpianist]

What about see-through glass shells?

[@CrabCentralStation]

Although those look cool... they are not recommended. Hermit crabs like to climb, and with that co.es falling. A glass shell can easily break causing major damage to their delicate soft abdomen. Natural shells are also porous, which the hermit crabs need for the gas exchange to properly take place for their modified gills.

[@abbysnyder7656]

Hello! I have a hermit crab molting. I am getting a new tank and I don’t know if I should move my other hermit crabs to my new tank. What would you recommend??

[@CrabCentralStation]

Hi! You can move your other crabs to the new tank, but never dig up a molting crab unless there is an emergency! You can move him over when he comes back up. Or, if you don’t want to keep up with two tanks you can leave the other crabs in there until he comes up. You’ll also have plenty of time to get the new tank set up correctly and how you want it!

[@abbysnyder7656]

Crab Central Station thank you so much!

[@bobbypeacock6969]

I have three Australian hermit crabs. They have a selection of 15 spare natural shells to chage into and the biggest two crabs have changed multiple times during the two years that i have had them. The smallest crab has molted once but not changed shell in two years. Should i be conserned about him not changing shell or is he just taking his time?

[@CrabCentralStation]

Maybe wash the shells? Try a few new options? They definitely should be changing shells and growing.

[@annauriel259]

Are there any paints or color materials that are safe for crab shells? If you want to personally decorate them

[@CrabCentralStation]

Hi! There aren’t any ways to safely decorate the shell yourself, but some retailers sell carved shells that are safe. No paint or decor is safe for hermit crabs

[@seancrowell3784]

Does anyone know where to get shells in the Dallas Texas area? I would prefer to buy in person and not to order online.

[@CrabCentralStation]

We have found some at craft stores and even Walmart. They usually come in multi- packs though. Some of the shells will be usable and some will not. Sometimes you can find them on FB market too.

[@cristianperez8331]

is it possible to take off the varnishing on the shell?

[@CrabCentralStation]

No, you need a natural shell. Even though the varnish may seem to come off it may not all come off. The inside of the shell is also varnished and would be difficult to get off as well. It would take too much work and we couldn’t guarantee that it would be safe after removal. It’s best to just purchase shells you know are safe. 😊

[@kimberlybrown514]

Can you use a tape measure to measure the shell

[@CrabCentralStation]

Yes

[@davidjohnson-gn3dk]

One of mine is in a painted shell and he is too big for it how would I Measure that one without hurting him

[@CrabCentralStation]

You just gently ace the ruler across his legs. Because he is soooo big for that shell, you might want to go up a half size.

[@davidjohnson-gn3dk]

@@CrabCentralStation ok ty so much

[@taryn9015]

Help me, my family brought home some shells from are beach trip and when going through them we found a hermit crab. We will take care care of him but what do we do to make sure he will survive?

[@CrabCentralStation]

It’s most likely a salt water hermit crab, one that needs to live in the ocean. We only know about land hermit crabs! If it’s a land hermit crab we can help you! Feel free to send us a picture through direct messages on Instagram or Facebook

[@tiffanymurray1270]

do you have a meet and great?

[@CrabCentralStation]

In person? Or online?

[@araniecejohnson9350]

Are the turbo shells being sold on amazon any good

[@CrabCentralStation]

Some, yes. They usually are not measured correctly for hermit crabs though. Sometimes they may have holes in them, which makes them unusable for our hermit crabs. I would use this site.... Ken owned hermit crabs and knows how to help you get the right shells! www.theshellstore.com

[@araniecejohnson9350]

@@CrabCentralStation awesome ordered from the shellshop

[@williegonzalez618]

Hey! could you do a video on their water like their salt and fresh water?

[@CrabCentralStation]

Yes!!

[@williegonzalez618]

@@CrabCentralStation Thank you!

[@karenfalder1817]

Yes I was wondering if anyone wants to get together and do a shell exchange? I have many smaller shells i do not need anymore that my hermies have outgrown and would be willing to swap them out with someone else for larger ones. Kind of do what the hermies do in nature.

[@CrabCentralStation]

That's a great idea! There is a sell and swap group associated with The Land Hermit Crabs Owners Society on Facebook.

[@soccreyes4647]

I got fascinated with this and I just subscribed. Uhm, can I use garden snail shells?

[@CrabCentralStation]

Yay! That's great! Welcome to Crab Central Station, we're so glad you're a part of our "Crab Crew"! You can use garden snail shells... but first boil them to kill and parasites/bacteria/ect. I'm not sure your crabs will wear them, but they will eat them! A great source of calcium!

[@soccreyes4647]

@@CrabCentralStation Wow thank you! That is very informative 👍 I've been thinking of getting a pet, that is compatible with my astrological sign, I'm a scorpio so, at 1st ive been thinking of getting an emperor scorpion, but I changed my mind because, it stings and although they look cool, they just sting. Anyway, I searched youtube for a nice harmless pet that's compatible with my water sign instead so, there Hermit crabs cancer. I know its kind of eccentric of me but by just watching these harmless and social creatures are a stress reliever so I hope I can get a pair one day and learn moreon on tips from your amazing channel. Thank you again 👍❤️👍

[@CrabCentralStation]

They are definitely a stress reliever for me. I love watching them explore their crabitat, eat, swim, play. So fun!

[@soccreyes4647]

@@CrabCentralStation Wow that is nice to know. And they are amazing and fascinating creatures. Thank u again, keep up the interesting content and care for the hermit crabs, and I hope to learn more from your channel stay safe and God bless 😊

[@silvermoonwcue5800]

Ok so i know that i had to hermit crabs then they dies... then we went to Florida got 3 healthy looking hermit crabs, we named them Sebastian, scuttle, squirt, now last night Sebastian was turning a shell then measuring it, then he jumped in it, then he noticed it was to small, and now i need help trying to find the right size of the perfect shell for him. P.S they came in natural shells :) and there is no shell jacking

[@CrabCentralStation]

The video you are commenting on is a great tool to teach you how to measure the shell and how to tell what type of shell your specie of hermit crab likes to wear. In the description of the video we have a link to our favorite online shell shop. The owner of that shop actually owns hermit crabs and knows how to size the shells for them properly. Just let him know you are looking for hermit crab shells and that CCS sent you over to him. He is great and will be glad to help you out.

[@DjQu30]

AWE MAN ... my daughter and i recently came back from Myrtle beach and we bought a hermit crab with everything the shop gave us...small "condo" came with a shell and sponge for water.. and a container of dried pellet "hermit crab food". This is my first time ever having a hermit crab and i just want to make sure im doing everything i can so he can survive and my daughter is happy. The shop told me to keep gravel in the tank... didn't mention anything about salt water... says no pools because they can drown... im just VERY CONFUSED... its been a week.. and i have tried to give him fresh zucchini and yellow pepper i hardly see him touch it... i do think i see him drink but i am not sure.. we bought only 1 SHELL so its obvious i need to grab more and some eco earth and set up his tank different... but i never got to purge him... i just got around to your channel and i guess im just looking for some help... he hardly walks around the tank and i think that is because of the pebbles or its not warm enough .. hes not happy.. hes stressed... looking for help! :)...

[@CrabCentralStation]

HI! So sorry for the late response, you can message us on instagram for direct help! New crabs often go through a period of de-stressing where they acclimate to their new surroundings. It is totally normal. We recommend doing the PPS Method (as seen in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y3nIo5yvq9tlo9E) to acclimate hermit crabs to their new environment. It may take several different times feeding a food before they get comfortable with it. Hopefully he has eaten in the past two weeks. Let us know if there is anything else we can help with :)

[@kerrielavoro825]

What website do you recommend for shells?

[@CrabCentralStation]

www.theshellstore.com

[@IdkImTiredRn]

Are glass shells okay for hermit crabs?

[@CrabCentralStation]

No, I’m sorry, as cool as they look - they are not safe. 1. Hermit crabs love to climb and they often fall. Glass shells can break and can puncture their delicate soft abdomen. 2. Glass is not porous like natural sea shells are. Hermit crabs have modified gills and they need the oxygen exchange to breathe.

[@IdkImTiredRn]

@@CrabCentralStation Oh okay I was wondering because I saw some videos of people with hermit crabs that have glass shells and so many people thought it was okay for them. Thanks for letting me know. I will try and pass on that information to others.

[@RandallLind]

My small crab Hermie refuses to change shells. I thought after they molt he would. All June he stayed under in a temp tank. I had him for about 2 going on 3 months. I got the money together this month for a 20 gallon long. I brought a bigger hermit crab named Crabby Bill. It is so cute Hermie which is small follows him around and wants to be where ever he is. I had Crabby for a month and a half. When I got him 30 mins later he changed his shell. Hermie came in a gray rock-like shell. I got the right shells no paint etc but he just doesn't seem to be into moving into a new shell.

[@CrabCentralStation]

The good news is that he is in a natural shell, so there is nothing to worry about. Hermit crabs will change shells when they are ready. There is nothing we can do to make them change. Just make sure you have shells available in the correct shape and size, and then let them do their crabby things.

[@juliarennels2741]

What if you have shells that have been collected from years, like a shell collection in a house, can I boil those and give them to my crabs?

[@CrabCentralStation]

Yes! You totally can, as long as they don’t have any holes, sharp edges, and are the right type.

[@juliarennels2741]

Crab Central Station ok! Thank you so much! Also fun fact one of the shells had a exoskeleton barely hanging on to it! It looked so cool so we have it as decoration!

[@zorroshpoon]

Are shell that have a shiny metal looking inside bad for hermit crabs

[@CrabCentralStation]

Nope, that is a natural shell (if I’m picturing the kind you are referring to).

[@honeyhunts8406]

Omg I love your black strawberry’s, they look like lava! Where did you get them?

[@CrabCentralStation]

Thank you! We got them from a lady who had to rehome all of her hermit crabs. Their names are Janice and Estelle :)

[@savannahharrell7790]

Hello sorry to bother you yet again but this lady pawned some crabs on me and I want to do right and I have them in a small emergency tank till I can get the big one cleaned. One immediately burrowed and the other two immediately tried to shell jack. She gave me shells but they were WAY too small. I can’t find anyone who sells shells! Do you know anyone where I can get some ASAP! She also dug them up to pawn them to me so I’m worried they aren’t going to make it. What can I do???

[@CrabCentralStation]

Hi! Our favorite place to find shells is theshellstore.com Do you have a way to separate the crabs that are shell jacking until you get new shells? You may also be able to find shells in a hobby store like Hobby Lobby.

[@savannahharrell7790]

Crab Central Station I had to use strips on cardboard as dividers. I only have a 10 gallon for all three I was not expecting to have crabs yet. I working hard to get the bug tank but I have to repair a crack that wasn’t done right. I am so glad you said hobby lobby. I didn’t know those would work. I have one 30 minutes away so I will go tomorrow! I will hopefully be able to get two more 10 gallons tomorrow. I would rather them alone till I get shells so they stop trying to hurt each other. Is that okay???

[@CrabCentralStation]

Yes! They can be alone until you get shells but you can also keep them separated the way you’re doing it when you get shells tomorrow. If it were me, I would wait to see if the shells at hobby lobby work, and if not then I’d separate further until the others came in the mail. No need to buy the tanks if the hobby lobby shells work. But the cardboard is temporary since it may get a bit soggy in the humidity

[@savannahharrell7790]

Crab Central Station I don’t have all the supplies yet so I’m doing my best with humidity and things but Oklahoma is in the correct season to help me out. Also what ratio is play sand to BAG of dried pre done eco earth. I know it in brick form but not bag. So I put a whole bag with 50 pounds play sand it’s about 10 inches deep because I want them to burrow since that’s what they were doing prior to me getting them. Also thank you for replying so fast y’all really do care about the hermits and it shows!

[@CrabCentralStation]

Because the sizes of the bags don’t match proportionately it is difficult to give an exact number like that. What most people do is take a large container and do 5 cups of sand to 1 of eco earth. In your 10 gallon don’t worry about adding eco earth if it’s really temporary. In your new tank, you may want to do the large container method. Does this answer your question? If not I can keep researching to find the exact number of bags!

[@toxic_wxlfie7951]

are petco shells good?

[@CrabCentralStation]

Some PetCo stores sell natural hermit crab shells. They are usually pretty small though, so make sure to measure your hermit crab first.

[@hornchic718]

Thanks for the advise 😁😀😀😊😊☺☺

[@CrabCentralStation]

You're welcome! Thanks for watching!

[@annacabble4111]

Where do you get your shells from.?

[@CrabCentralStation]

Hi! We get our shells from www.theshellstore.com -C.C.S 🦀🐚

[@smoothmule]

How large does the heat pad need to be ? Does it need to be located above the substrate?

[@CrabCentralStation]

The heat mat should cover the entire length of the back of the tank and yes, placed above the substrate level!

[@smoothmule]

Crab Central Station I can’t find anything large enough. Where do you buy them?

[@smoothmule]

All I can find is 8” by 18”. I need a longer one

[@CrabCentralStation]

What size tank do you have?

[@smoothmule]

Crab Central Station I’m getting a 40 gallon tank. Right now, I have a 20 gallon tank that is low and wide, like 2 ten gallon tanks side by side.

[@sagidboxing5526]

Hi I loved this video oh and first

[@hermitcrabsanolesterrarium5433]

Do you know if I can use shells from a craft store?

[@CrabCentralStation]

Some shells from craft stores will work. Watch our shells 101 video so that you know what size and type to buy.

[@hermitcrabsanolesterrarium5433]

@@CrabCentralStation ok thank you

[@hermitcrabsanolesterrarium5433]

@@CrabCentralStation there is this shell pack with like 20 shells in it if I get it I will boil them cause they are bleached

[@hermitcrabsanolesterrarium5433]

Oh yeah with my parent

[@snipey1893]

hi i have two questions , One i it safe to have smaller cras and bigger cras n the same tank? And two one of my smaller crabs hes about the size of a quarter he keeps coming out of his shell and like cralling around the tank but then he sits right next to or very close to my bigger crabs and it scares me that something is going to happen to him? so can you pls help me on this?

[@CrabCentralStation]

It’s totally ok to have small and big crabs together! Always make sure to feed enough protein so that no cannibalism happens!

[@CrabCentralStation]

So sorry I missed your second question! Your crab keeps leaving his shell? Make sure you have enough of the right size shell for him. To re shell him, take a small container and add a tiny bit of water, just enough his claw tips can dip in. Add in 2-3 shells and put a towel over the top of the container and put the container back in your tank. Wait a little while and see if he re shells. If he does, put him back in the tank. If he keeps going out of his shell, let us know and we can go over your setup to see why he may be doing that. You can contact us that way on Instagram or our Facebook group CrabCentralStation!

[@snipey1893]

@@CrabCentralStation ok thankyou i will try do what you said an if it keeps happening i will let you know

[@snipey1893]

@@CrabCentralStation An thankyou for all your help and i love your vids. :)

[@CrabCentralStation]

Awesome! Let us know if you need anything else

[@janepease660]

My hermit crabs didn’t come with painted shells but they were selling a bunch of painted shells at the shopAnd they had very few natural shells but I got the most natural ones I could find

[@CrabCentralStation]

Good to hear! theshellstore.org has some great natural shell options.