Hermit crabs are fascinating creatures that not only require proper housing and food, but also need stimulation and entertainment. Providing your hermit crab with engaging toys can help keep them happy and active. In this article, we will discuss three easy ways to make toys for your hermit crab to ensure they stay entertained.

1. DIY Climbing Structures

Hermit crabs love to climb and explore, so make sure they have enough structures in their tank for them to enjoy. You can easily create DIY climbing structures using natural materials such as driftwood, coconut shells, and cork bark. To make a climbing structure:

– Choose a few pieces of driftwood, coconut shells, or cork bark that are suitable for your hermit crab’s tank size.

– Rinse the materials thoroughly in dechlorinated water and let them dry.

– Arrange the materials in the tank in a manner that creates various levels and pathways for your hermit crab to explore and climb.

– Secure the pieces using aquarium-safe silicone if needed, ensuring they are stable and won’t collapse on your pet.

2. Foraging Toys

Foraging toys can help stimulate your hermit crab’s natural instincts while providing them with mental stimulation. You can easily create foraging toys using household items. An example of a simple foraging toy is an egg carton treat dispenser:

– Take a clean cardboard egg carton and cut it into smaller sections (each containing two or three egg cups).

– Fill each cup with treats like fruit, vegetables, or other small food items that your hermit crab enjoys.

– Hide the filled egg carton sections throughout the tank so your hermit crab can discover them while exploring.

– Replace the treats every few days to keep things fresh, and always remove any uneaten food to prevent spoilage.

3. Shell Enrichment

As your hermit crab grows, they’ll need new shells to move into. It is essential to have a variety of appropriately-sized, extra shells in your hermit crab’s tank at all times. To make shell selection and exploration more enjoyable and engaging for your crab

– Thoroughly clean and prepare various shells in different shapes, sizes, and colors, making sure there are no sharp edges or cracks.

– Organize the shells into a visually-appealing display within the tank, either by scattering them throughout or by creating dedicated “shell shops” using small containers or shallow dishes.

– Observe your hermit crab as they explore and try out different shells, ensuring that they can easily exit and enter each shell with ease.

By incorporating these three simple toy ideas into your hermit crab’s habitat, you can provide them with enrichment, enjoyment, and help promote their overall wellbeing. Keep in mind that every hermit crab is unique – try different toys and arrangements to discover what sparks their interest the most. Happy crafting!