Many different species of land hermit crabs live in tropical areas of the Indo-Pacific region, the western Atlantic and the western Caribbean. Land hermit crabs live close to the shoreline and must have access to both land and water.

Is it cruel to keep hermit crabs?

They're not aggressive—friendly and fun if handled properly. They are disease-free—they do not carry human diseases, and do not need to go to the vet. They are hypo-allergenic, meaning they're a safe pet for children with allergies. They have a long lifespan, so hermit crabs can grow with your child.

Where do hermit crabs make their homes?

To protect themselves, hermit crabs search for abandoned shells — usually sea snail shells. When they find one that fits, they tuck themselves inside it for protection and carry it with them wherever they go. This habit of living in a borrowed shell gave rise to the hermit crab's name.