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Burrowing right after purchase?
Posted: Tue Jan 03, 2023 7:27 pm
by HermitCrabsRCute
Hello all! So I just bought my first hermit crabs, I got them about 5 days ago. They burrowed after the first day. They have thick substrate, good humidity, OK temperature (working on getting it warmer), and fresh saltwater and freshwater, along with fresh fruit and veggies. However, I was wondering what this could mean? At first I worried it was too cold, but I’ve raised the temp a bit more and they’re still burrowed. Could it be molting or de-stressing? I got worried they were dead and dug around to see if they were alive(which they were), I didn’t rebury them so they would suffocate. I realize unearthing them could’ve been bad if they were molting. One has started re-burrowing already and I think the other will start soon. Should I be worried or is this normal? I know they didn’t have the correct substrate and to molt in at the store.
Re: Burrowing right after purchase?
Posted: Tue Jan 03, 2023 8:10 pm
by hermitsinnc
Yes, they are/were probably molting or destressing. Perfectly normal, especially right after purchase. You are correct that they should not be dug up (since we can't know if they're molting or just hiding.)
One thing you will want to be sure to add to their tank is a source of protein (any meat will work) and calcium (eggshells are a good source) daily.
Welcome, and happy crabbing!
Re: Burrowing right after purchase?
Posted: Tue Jan 03, 2023 9:22 pm
by HermitCrabsRCute
hermitsinnc wrote: ↑Tue Jan 03, 2023 8:10 pm
Yes, they are/were probably molting or destressing. Perfectly normal, especially right after purchase. You are correct that they should not be dug up (since we can't know if they're molting or just hiding.)
One thing you will want to be sure to add to their tank is a source of protein (any meat will work) and calcium (eggshells are a good source) daily.
Welcome, and happy crabbing!
Ok thank you!!
Re: Burrowing right after purchase?
Posted: Wed Jan 04, 2023 9:45 am
by myllkti
Hi! This is completely normal, and is in fact very common. They may have been waiting for good conditions to molt, or simply distressing even! It was good you did not rebury them, but also avoid digging them up without unusual pressing circumstances and/or the advice of someone who has experience navigating such complications in the future
