Here is some additional information on Hermit crabs from Pets in the Classroom.

Hermit crabs can have different personalities, which is another great reason to have more than one crab in your classroom habitat.  Some will be more outgoing and curious than others.  To hold a hermit crab, put the crab in the palm of your hand and keep your palm flattened so the crab can’t grab onto it.  The warmth of your hand can encourage them to come out of their shell.  You can also mist the crab lightly with dechlorinized water, but don’t overdo it!

It’s interesting to watch crabs interact with each other.  Crabs can fight over shells, and you will know if things are escalating if you hear the crabs “chirping”.  Crabs will push and climb over each other, and wave their feelers at each other.

Crabs also like to choose their own shell to live in, so be sure that you provide them with choices as they grow.  Shells should be cleaned with boiling water before being put into the crab habitat.  Crabs don’t just change shells, and if you see your crab digging a lot, it might mean that he is ready to molt.  When the crab is ready to shed his skin, it’s important to have a special isolation tank ready so the newly molted crab is safe and sound.

Hermit crabs are fascinating pets and there is a lot to learn about these amazing little creatures.  http://hermit-crabs.com has a variety of informative articles on how to keep classroom hermit crabs thriving and providing learning opportunities for your students.

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