A hermit crab who constantly changes back and forth between shells when it’s not molting can be a concern as a hermit crab owner. In this article, we will be discussing what are reasons or factors why your hermit crab keeps changing its shells.
It’s looking for the ‘Right Shell’
This is pretty common for hermit crabs who are in a captivity. Thats why we always recommend that if you’re taking care of a hermit crab, always provide them shells with different size, shapes, and openings. Just like us humans, hermit crabs likes to have options as well in their shell selection.
So it’s a huge mistake if you’re taking care of a hermit crab and you’re just going to provide them with a few selections. If you’re taking care of small hermit crabs, better provide them with 3-4 shells a bit bigger than the ones they are currently living in.
As mentioned, give them options with shells that have different shapes and openings. If you’re taking care of more than one hermit crab, double that amount of shells since you don’t want your hermit crabs to fight each other for the shells.
Terrarium conditions
Hermit crabs need to meet a certain temperature and humidity in their terrarium. So as an owner you need to ensure that these requirements are met since this will be likely the case since your hermit crab is experiencing stress and keeps changing its shell.
Regularly clean the terrarium as well as there might be parasites or molds affecting your hermit crab’s comfort in the terrarium. Check regularly as well if there are uneaten food that might be infested by ants. So check them carefully as it can be a reason.
Parasites and Bacteria
Inline with the previous reason, do check if your hermit crabs might have any parasites on them such as ticks or mites. Or check the shells they have in their terrarium. That’s why it’s important to sterilize and clean the shells before you give them to your hermit crabs.
It’s a HUGE mistake to not clean the shells since you’re doing more harm than good to your hermit crabs. And once your hermit crab became sick its possible the other hermit crabs in the terrarium will get sick as well.
So please do check their shells and your hermit crab if they have any parasites on them if they are acting really iffy and constantly changing their shells.
Lack of Source of Activity
Our hermit crabs can get stressed if they have nothing to do in their terrarium. In the wild, they are pretty active. Climbing and exploring their environment. Make sure you provide them with stuff they can be active and pass time.
These source of entertainment or activity can be hiding spots such as empty pots and coconut shells. Climbing and obstacle courses such as driftwood to climb on, DIY nets and ropes, empty bottles and jars and even plants.