Why is your hermit crab molting and what should you do while it is molting? These are two questions that we too had to figure out once we saw that our hermit crab had gone missing for several days. While you may be concerned at first, in short order, your hermit crab will reappear.
What is Hermit Crab Molting?
Molting is when hermit crabs shed their outer skin usually twice a year. When a hermit crab is molting, you will notice it will become less active, won’t eat, drink excessive amount of water, and may even burrow. This is normal behavior and it does not harm them. It takes several weeks for the molting process to complete. They’ll even eat their shed skin as this is a good source of calcium.
Hermit crabs are not the only animals that molt. Other animals such as lizards, snakes, birds, and tarantulas shed their skin. In all cases, it is completely harmless to the animal and is completely normal.
Is my Hermit Crab Molting?
According to PetHelpful.com, there are some signs to look for. These include:
- Your crab suddenly starts digging, although this can be caused if the humidity and temperature are not at the right levels. A crab might dig deeper to insulate himself from conditions he does not like. If it is a crab newly bought, it could be due to stress and a new habitat.
- Your crab eats and drinks excessively. This is because he’s storing fat and water in a small, gray-black “bubble” on the left side of his abdomen.
- Lethargy, less activity
- An ashy exoskeleton
- Dull, cloudy eyes
- The crab replaces a missing limb with a gel limb, which looks like a little nub where their leg should be.
- Antennas look tangled and show less activity.
How to Care for Your Hermit Crab While it is Molting
While your hermit crab is molting, you might be tempted to look for it in the sand or even try to help it. As well as your intentions might be, you would cause more harm to them. Not only does this damage them physically, but also stresses them during this process. The best thing to do is to give them their space and wait for them to re-emerge.
What if your hermit crab has been gone for a month? Depending on the size of the hermit crab, the molting process can take 4-8 weeks. This does seem excessive, but again, this is perfectly normally. Giving your hermit crab the time it needs will ensure that it stays healthy.
Depending on the amount of hermit crabs in the tank, some choose to isolate the hermit crab while it is molting. If you follow the recommended space for hermit crabs of 5 gallons per crab, this won’t be necessary. However, if there are more, it is worth considering.
Keeping a Healthy Hermit Crab
Molting is part of keeping a healthy hermit crab. It shows that you have cared for it properly and that it is ready to grow. You are to be commended for caring for these beautiful creatures and allowing it to thrive under your care.
To learn more about hermit crabs, please continue to browse this website where we cover everything from essential items to frequently asked questions.
