subject: Painted Hermit Crab Shells Offer Variety In Your Terrarium [print this page] Hermit crabs in nature have already been bestowed by Mother Nature, their point of attraction actually is the varied, amazing combinations of colors they emerge and adapt in such a way that makes them such an unusual creature. These are wonderful, intelligent, odor free and very clean pets they are friendly, they have evolved to live on land and use an empty shell as a portable home, as well as a protection.
Being not a true crab they are always on the search for larger shells and this becomes essential for owners of these pets that they provide progressively larger and better shells which can support their pets grow and survive. In the wild they are omnivores, feeding on both plant and animal material and these crabs are known to use the shells of dead animals, in particular the sea snail, to help protect their soft bodies and also to maintain moisture levels inside their shells.
They received the name hermit crab because they live alone in a single shell, although they are quite social animals living in large colonies, this belongingness makes them more active they become and becomes essential for them to change their shells twice a year. The shell is their home where they often sleeps for most of the day and low temperatures make them inactive and they draw back into their shell.
Some hermit crabs change shells quite frequently and others tend to stay content with their current shell regardless if they are uncomfortable with their current shell. They are quite choosy and are very fussy about how their shell looks and scientists have discovered that they much prefer brightly painted and colored decorated shells.
Painted hermit crab shells are so attractive and neat looking and the kids just love them, these crabs are relatively easy to find in pet stores, but care is required in choosing a potential pet. Prior to buying it is wise to ensure that all the legs are present, including three pairs of walking legs, the shell covering the head and thorax is not damaged, there are no parasites or small bugs present, and that the crab is lively. If one decides of having more than one, then it is better to match their size and types so that later they do not fight for the shells.
Painted hermit crab shells add to the uniqueness of hermit crab and makes them more attractive and exclusive, making them interesting easy care companions. They provide distinct personalities, to them and their unique characteristics and low maintenance requirements make them good pets.
