Why do hermit crabs chirp?

Question

Does a chirping hermit crab mean they are happy, sad, angry, want attention, scared, communication, etc?

Answer 1

Usually it is because they are fighting/scared/stressed...

http://www.hermitcrabassociation.com/php

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

http://www.thecrabbagepatch.com/

Answer 2

Apparently, the hermit crabs from Ecuador do this more than the Caribbean species. It is known as "stridulation", rubbing body parts against another body part or shell to make the noise. From what I have researched it seems that it is most likely a communication and "Hey, don't disturb me!" signal.

Other animals, (ex: tarantulas, crickets, katydids,etc.) are well known for their stridulating. In their cases it is used as a breeding, territorial, disturbed and defense mechanism.

Good question! I'd never heard it until I clicked on the link. Way cool. :)

Answer 3

HERMIT-CRABS.COM. Your hermit crab care headquarters!

Everything you need to know about raising land hermit crabs. Hermit crabs! ... Chirping! The mysteries of hermit crab vocalization. My crab makes noise! ...

www.hermit-crabs.com/chirping.html  

Good luck 2u