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My hermit crab is out of its shell, but I saw legs moving. Is it molting?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Male | unneutered | 3 years and 1 month old | 10 lbs

I found my hermit crab shell in my tank I think it’s dead but then I’ve seen legs inside of the tank and they moved what should I do oh an I took out the other shell

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on February 6th, 2019

It could be molting. If so, leave him alone as it is a stressful time for him. Leave the other shell in the enclosure, just in case. If it isn't buried, move him to a different area of the tank and monitor for movement. If there is no movement, monitor for a fishy, rotten odor. This is the surest way to determine if the crab has died.

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