HCA: Hermit Crab Association

I took a small animal exercise ball and a dremel drill, and used the drill to drill small 1/8 of an inch holes every 1/4 inch.

Total cost: $5.00

I would be concerned about the stress on the crab being out of the crabitat for too long without proper humidity and such. I think it would feel like a small cage. :/ Cute idea, but a crab is not a hamster.

Also, the crabs legs might get stuck in those slits which could cause injury.

You know when I first thought of this idea.. I thought the same thing.. that it might stress the crabs out.. But as it turns out the crabs never flinch inside the ball.. it's almost like the small enclosure makes them feel safe.. not to mention it is one of the safest ways I have found to introduce a crab to a new person.. No pinching!!
Argue if you must.. they are not out of their proper temp/humidity for very long.. and my crabs seem stimulated during a stroll.. plus there is no risk of loosing anybody!!

We don't want to argue, but promote proper crab care on the HCA. We would like to point out the pros and cons so that if anyone else reads this, they can make their own educated choices. Please be careful that his legs can't get stuck in the ball.

I put pics up of my crabs in them (they seemed to love them) and i got pretty harshly attacked about it. Good luck though you have my support.

Keep in mind, this thread is a few months old.


This topic has been brought up a few times over the years with many crabbers having different opinions. Which isn't surprising since it's also a hot topic in the world of hamsters, rats, mice, etc. I think in all cases the bottom line is, use your best judgment - and if that leads you to the decision to use something like this with your crabs, always with close supervision.