HCA: Hermit Crab Association

So i switched too my 55 gal. Chunked the small water dishes and sponges and replaced with a fw and sw pool. But now Im worried because the past couple mornings (7ish) ill see my big guy sitting on the cholla (leading into sw pool) close to the water, but not practically in it like they did with the dishes. I have small pebbles in the bottom of the pools and obvious ways out. So my question is, Is he just basking or should i put the dishes back? Thanks!

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Mine rarely ever go all the way into our dishes-- I usually just see them sitting at the edge of them. I used to worry if they could get in and out easily but there have been a couple times where the water level was noticeably lower before it was time to change it and I quit worrying, haha.
I know that doesn't specifically answer your question but hope the info is helpful anyhow lol.

I greatly appreciate it! We were worried! They use to love getting in the shallow dishes. Ill assume he just like lounging around the pool lol. I doubt they will dehydrate themselves! Thanks again for easing my mind a little and maybe they'll come around!

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They'll get used to the new size pools but one way to induce them to go in is to add bubblers...after all, moving water is what they were used to in the wild. All of my crabs go into the pools to soak and a few like to sit right by the airstone as though it's a little jacuzzi !

Mine usually just straddle the pool. Only time I've seen them go in is when they are trying to climb the vines I have going from the edge of the pools, over the pools and into either the shell shack or moss pit - it's funny to watch because they are climbing it with great care and then all of a sudden you here a "Plop!" Surprise bath?!