HCA: Hermit Crab Association

My crabs only come out at night when the lights are all off. They hide and rush to shelter whenever I try and shine a light to look at them. Does anyone have ideas on how I could make my crabs more active during the day or not run away when I shine a light to see them? Or is this just something that takes time?

It's def something that can take time. However, I've found that the more hideouts I have for them, the more they will come out during the day. I think it helps them feel secure that they can run and hide easy if they need to.

Sent from my Moto G (5) Plus using Tapatalk

Thanks! I currently have two hides for them (a coconut hut and a log). They generally hind under those. Is this enough hides? I have trouble trying to find space for more.

Providing cover using branches and/or fake plants will also do nicely if you don’t have the space for caves.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Yeah definitely add more stuff like fake plants and branches. They definitely come out more when you have lots of stuff they can shelter under. Also you can get a blue light and leave it on all the time. They sell these "moonlight" bulbs at pet stores. It's not super bright but you will def be able to watch them without disturbing them. Make sure when you approach the crabitat you do it from an angle, and don't come right up close to the glass, approach them slowly. If you come up the them quickly and from above they will get startled.

Thanks for the help!