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Tips Before Purchasing Your Hermit Crab Pet
Your crab pet is relatively easy to care for, doesn't smell, and can be very entertaining to watch these little critters crawl around their tank and even over each other.
These little guys don't understand how to go around each other, so you'll usually see them either run into one another or crawl over each other.
Prior to purchasing and bringing home your hermit crab pet, there are some important things to factor to make your selection the best.
The two main kinds of pet crabs include the land hermit crab (also known as the Purple Pincher) and Ecuadorian hermit crabs - named after the location they are most prevalently found.
Most new crab owners start with the purple pincher variety since the other species requires more intensive care and is traditionally a bit more delicate.
These types of crabs are a bit more popular and are less expensive too.
While at the pet store making your exciting decision for your new crab, be sure to check out the crabs which are most lively and active, and stay away from crabs acting more lethargic.
You can usually test the health of a crab by picking up their shell so they come out to say hello and to ensure they come out of their shell.
Be sure to show a little patience as these guys can be a little on the shy side.
You'll want to visually evaluate their health, as you aren't sure the conditions of the pet store or how long they have been in this temporary tank.
You'll want to be careful in selecting your pet.
These crabs are available at more and more pet stores and fairs and are becoming more popular as pets.
There are also certain options to purchase on the Internet that can be returned if there are any health issues.
Also exercise a bit of caution in buying online, as it may be more convenient to visit your local pet store and select the crab yourself.
One other major health factor to consider when purchasing a crab as a pet is mites.
Mites are known to infect hermit crabs from time to time, and look like little brown and white grain spots.
When mites infect one crab, they tend to spread to many other hermit crabs within the tank.
Be sure to check for mites at the pet store when selecting your new little crabs, as you don't want to infect your entire tank.
Selecting a new pet crab and then long term care is a rewarding and enjoyable experience, but you just need to be mindful of some of these factors such as disease, illness, or injury to ensure you are selecting the healthiest crab possible.
Naturally it's best to understand the needs of your new pet.
Be sure to bring home the best pet hermit crab possible by being mindful of these behavioral and appearance factors of your new crab.
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