When do hermit crabs usually switch shells?

Question

I just got some hermit crabs a few days ago, and i've been wondering when they'll be switching shells, so i can be prepared... or is there no way of telling? HELP!! i'm confused >.<

Answer 1

It depends on species. Caribbean land hermit crabs/ Purple pincers are known to switch often. If a hermit crabs is in a healthy safe environment and provided with clean safe shells they will change even if their own shell isn&#039;t too small for them

other Species like the Ecuadorian land hermit crabs are known to be really stubborn about shell changes.

It&#039;s a good idea to always have some natural shells on hand. The openings should be close to the crabs currant shell.

No painted shells and remember to boil in safe salt water.

rule of thumb is 3 shells per crab. you can get shells cheaper though craft stores.  

Answer 2

I have crabs that hardly ever change shells, even when it seems that they should be in a different size and then I have one that switches shells almost daily! I read somewhere that different kinds of hermit crabs switch less than others as well...  Make sure you boil the shells and offer a large assortment of sizes and types of shells and they will switch if they want..

http://www.hermitcrabassociation.com/php

http://www.hermit-crabs.com/

http://www.thecrabbagepatch.com/

Answer 3

A hermit crab leaves it&#039;s shell for a bigger shell when it too big to fit in it&#039;s previous one. It&#039;s a good idea to have a couple bigger shells in the cage so the transition can be easy for the crab. Good Luck!