Hermit Crabs are popular first pets and are given to children at a very young age. One of the best things about Hermit Crabs is that they are inexpensive and easy to take care of. Often, Hermit Crabs only require a little bit of food and a small cage in order to survive for up to five years. If you are considering investing in some Hermit Crabs, then read through these brief tips for more information:
The most important thing to keep in mind when investing in Hermit Crabs is that most Hermit Crabs are pretty much the same. It is unlikely that you will find much variation in the needs and personalities of individual Hermit Crabs. Therefore, your selection of Hermit Crabs is relatively arbitrary. It is recommended that you and your children select a Hermit Crab from a pet store based on the look and size of the shell. Also, know that the Hermit Crabs will usually stay inside of the shell, so don't be surprised if you rarely have the opportunity to meet face to face with the Hermit Crabs.
It is advised that you purchase more than one Hermit Crab so that your Hermit Crabs do not get lonely. Generally, Hermit Crabs are easy pets to care for. They will occupy very little space inside of a plastic container and sit on top of rocks. They spend their days inside of their shells and sometimes come out for water and food. You should have very little trouble getting your Hermit Crabs to move, as they will generally walk away if you tap on their shells. Clean the cage about once a week and change the water daily. You may also want to change the rocks in the cage about once a month to keep the cage from smelling bad.
Hermit Crabs are great first pets because they are cheap and easy to watch. They will not bite or claw at a child. Though they are from the crab family, they will not injure any child either. Children like to watch Hermit Crabs gently make their ways around the cage. Children should also be warned that Hermit Crabs are fragile animals and should be treated carefully.
Hermit Crabs do not live very long, but if a Hermit Crab dies, it can often be easily replaced without much notice. They major difference between Hermit Crabs is the color and size of the shell, which varies only slightly. If are are in the market for Hermit Crabs, then visit your local pet store, as most carry a large stock of them. Keep in mind that Hermit Crabs are not a terribly interactive pet, but they are safe and very easy to take care of.