Hermit crabs. It’s totally understandable that you’re searching for more information on these cute guys (believe me, the longer you know them, the cuter they get!). After all, most of us know very little about them in general, so even considering them as a pet seems somewhat akin to taking in a python or a tarantula as a pet. But please don’t lump this cute and unique animal in with those two animals. While I’m not about to say anything bad about either the python or the tarantula, I have so many pleasant things to say about a hermit crabs. Starting with his potential for being an outstanding pet! It’s always good to know before you adopt a pet exactly what you’re adopting, now isn’t it? And it’s no different with the hermit crab. My explanation will be part laymen’s interpretation with some scientific jargon thrown in. But don’t worry, I’ll explain those terms so you can understand them. When your daughter goes crazy over the hermit crab in the pet store window or at the tourist shop along the coast, she’s really looking at a land-based or terrestrial hermit crab. This crab is a member of the family of coenobitidae. These animals are quite distinct in the animal kingdom. Not only does his shell home distinguish him from many other animals, but he begins his life in the ocean. And while they can live for many months out of water, they eventually travel back to the shore in order to take a dip to sustain them for a while. What Does It Take To Own A Hermit Crab? Surprisingly less in the amount of supplies and feed than you may think. If you’re considering buying one, however, the most important thing you need to think about is buying more than one. Hermit crabs are “happy crabs.” And as you begin to interact with your new-found friend, you’ll understand exactly what I mean. And the word hermit - well, this guy is not called a hermit because he’s anti-social. So if you’re thinking about buying a crab, let me leave you with this one simple idea - the more the better. You’re probably familiar with the book (and subsequently the movies), “Cheaper by the Dozen.” While these animals aren’t cheaper by the dozen, they certainly will be far happier when you “collect” them by the dozen. In fact, I know of several hermit crab owners who actually do by these great guys “by the dozen.” It’s a much more realistic snapshot of their native habitat.