I live with some limitations (including allergies) that prevent me from going the traditional pet route--dogs and cats. Fish do absolutely nothing for me since I find it totally boring watching them swim in circles. One little critter has fascinated me from the first time I saw them--Hermit Crabs!
Since I live by myself, I have no one to talk to except the computer or family and friends via the telephone. My work hours have turned me into a real night owl. (Sleep from about 3 a.m. to 11 a.m. I really needed something to keep me company in the middle of the night when the rest of the neighborhood is sleeping. Hermit crabs just happen to be nocturnal creatures who enjoy being out and about in a dimly lit world. They also carry no diseases and are considered the idea pet for people with allergies. Since they are easy to lift (probably don't weigh an ounce apiece), they seemed the idea pet for me. If you share the limitations I have, might these be the pet for you?
SUPPLIES AND EQUIPMENT NEEDED
Aquariums. The size is up to you. I started with a 10 gallon and quickly switched up to a larger size (between 18-20 gallons) that was given me by a neighbor. I've had varying recommendations but was told by Kathy from Florida Marine Research (FMR) that 1 crab per gallon was about right. I now have 14 very active crabs (small-medium sized) with 1 legless crab in this aquarium. There seems to be plenty of room.
Lid. Hermit crabs are real escape artists according to my favorite pet store and some internet friends. Therefore, some kind of lid is mandatory. I use one with a 15 watt florescent light. This lid helps to keep the humidity and heat in the tank since the crabs like 74 F and a humidity of 50-70%.
