HCA: Hermit Crab Association

Hello! My name is Jen and my son is Justin. He's 12. He begged for the last 6 months for crabs so we got them for Christmas. We have 2 and he named them Phineas and Ferb. We've had them for a week exactly. The day we brought them home one burrowed and hasn't resurfaced. The other one was very active until last night when he burrowed. Is it normal for them to burrow as soon as they get into their new home? I thought maybe it was just a stress relief burrow but after a week I'm wondering if the first one is molting possibly? The crabitat doesn't smell bad so I'm assuming he didn't pass away.

Yes ,it is totally normal. Crabs may not have had the proper conditions to molt where they were kept so may need to molt right away. Or they may be de-stressing. Or just hanging out. Be sure to read through all the care sheets. Keep your tank at optimal conditions, and they will surface when they are ready. It could be days, weeks, or months. Welcome to crabbing!

Thank you so much! I'm working my way through the care sheets and posts. I appreciate your advice.