I am a new hermit crab owner any idea on getting my crabs to warm up to me?

[HermitCrabCHICA]

My hermit crab is shy and won't come out does anyone have any ideas of getting them to like me?

[Motörcrab]

Your best bet is to let them adjust to their new surroundings. Constantly picking them up and checking on them will prolong their adjustment time.adjusying can take weeks, even months. Eventually they may be like, "Hey this giant monster thing isn't so bad. It feeds us and gives us water. Maybe I won't run away as far this time!"

We have had some crabs for several years and still run and hide when they see us. Other could care less, some we can hand feed. The level of shyness and/or trust is dependant on each crab.

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[HermitCrabCHICA]

Okay I will do that. thankyou Motor Crab!

[VickieG]

That was a perfect response to that question. I've had some people tell me their crabs are used to being handled. I think it depends on the crab. Some crabs may get used to handling but many will retreat underground or cling to structures when they see you instead.

Sometimes I need to move my buddies so I can get to the water dish or fix something or even just feed them. Some act like I terrorize them on a daily basis. I've had most of these guys for quite a few years too. I have one that used to throw itself, not drop, THROW itself off its branch when I'd feed them. Don't take it personally, even though it's tough not to sometimes, esp when all you do is feed and care for them. They're just hardwired to the dangers of larger animals and maybe tiny brains!

And, unfortunately, I imagine their first experience with humans landed them in a painted Batman shell, shipped halfway across the world with a couple million friends to an air conditioned souvenir shop with dozens of people a day poking at them. So...

Here's what I do when I see one that hasn't retreated the entire way into the shell. I very slowly extend my finger towards their antennae. I'll even move it up and down a little, mimicking their antennae movements until they let me get close enough for them to check it out. It doesn't hurt to have a little bit of crushed nut residue on your fingers. Then I just hold still while they check me out... hopefully they realize I'm not going to hurt them and I talk softly to them. Then I undo everything by accidentally spritzing someone while trying to water a plant. Sigh...
Best of luck to you!

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[HermitCrabCHICA]

Okay thx VickyG that was very helpful! I have never thought about doing that what a great idea! I will try it next time my crabs come out of hiding!