New Crab Parent

[WineMom13]

Today I bought 2 hermit crabs for my son (Pinky and The Brain). The store (a seaside gift shop) said they were land crabs and did not need saltwater. They have a 20 gal tank with about 6 inches of Eco Earth, with a few things to climb on, fresh ad saltwater, and each have a hut. One almost immediately started digging then found a hut and has stayed in it, the other is sitting in the middle of the tank doing nothing. They are both small crabs, and were two of the most active crabs without painted shells. I feel like I am doing something wrong already.

[daws409]

They're new crabs... It takes awhile for them to destress and get accustomed to their new home. A typical newbie will bury for a couple of weeks. Some even decide to go ahead and molt.

You're doing great! Congrats on the newbies and welcome to HCA!!

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[Just Jay]

just as mentioned pps will take a little time as they get used to better conditions and start to heal from any injuries. in the first couple weeks when i got my four rescues in i offed raw protein, calcium and honey. some fresh fruit as well. just keep their conditions going as well as you are now and you will see them soon. it also helps to spend some quiet time near the tank so they become used to you.


if your really worried fill out the emergency template that way if any other member has advice they cane chime in and you will feel more secure.

either way welcome to pink, the brain and you!

[LadyJinglyJones]

Sounds like a good setup so far!

Do you have a thermometer & hygrometer so you know what the temperature & humidity are? 80 is the magic number... 80° & 80% humidity.

Please ask any questions you can think up!
It's always great to have another crabber around! These guys are such weird, awesome little animals. You're sure to fall in love with them.

[WineMom13]

yes I do, I set up the tank about a week before I went and bought them, I told my son Santa knew we were going to be out of town and did not want them left alone. Current temperature is 75.2 F and humidity is 82%. They were active last night somewhat, and now I can't find them, but someone has been digging. I know they did not escape because I have those locking screen clips you use for snakes on the lid to protect them from the curious 3 year old I have a ceramic heat emitter, should I turn that on to raise the temperature?

Sounds like a good setup so far!

Do you have a thermometer & hygrometer so you know what the temperature & humidity are? 80 is the magic number... 80° & 80% humidity.

Please ask any questions you can think up!
It's always great to have another crabber around! These guys are such weird, awesome little animals. You're sure to fall in love with them.

[Just Jay]

I would. I know a lot of misinformation about hermits is out there but the second i raised them up to the 80-90 range i noticed they are a million times more active

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