Hermit crab molting out of shell

[CrystalK2004]

So about 2 weeks ago one of my hermit crabs was showing classic signs of getting close to molting. He was digging a lot and constantly at the food and water bowls. Close to 1 week ago he burrowed under the soil but left his shell. Is this normal behavior? I've never had one molt without their shell. The first day some of his legs were visible and he was moving. I opened the tank to refill water and food bowls and he began chirping at me. Since them he had covered himself and I can no longer see him. Has anyone experienced this before?

[KellyCrabbieLove]

They do not molt without their shells unless something is wrong. They NEVER go naked at all unless something is wrong. The only time they shouldn't have a shell is the second between leaving one to hop in another. Digging down without a shell is a big problem. Are you absolutely positively sure the shell you found left behind is what he had on? Could he be wearing a different one? If you are without a doubt sure that he is naked and buried then you have a decision to make. Either go digging and hope he is ok or don't and hope he is ok. Either way, a crab without a shell for 2 weeks underground doesn't stand a good chance.

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[CrystalK2004]

I am absolutely sure he doesn't have a shell on. Thank you for the reply. I will dig a little and see if he is ok or not.

[Brthome85]

Any news?

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