Why do hermit crabs dig?

Burrowing: Hermit crabs are known to dig burrows in the sand or substrate in order to hide, sleep, and retreat. These burrows provide them with protection from predators and the elements, as well as a safe place to rest.

Escaping Desiccation: Hermit crabs have permeable exoskeletons, meaning they can easily lose moisture through their body surfaces. To counter this, they tend to dig burrows or find hiding spots in moist environments, such as under rocks or logs. By digging, they can create a humid microclimate that helps them conserve water and prevent desiccation.

Securing a Suitable Shell: Hermit crabs regularly molt and outgrow their shells. While searching for a new and larger shell, they may temporarily dig into the sand to protect their exposed bodies or to avoid confrontations with other crabs competing for the same shell.

Searching for Food: Some species of hermit crabs are omnivores and scavengers, and they use their claws to dig through the sand or leaf litter in search of food, including decaying plant matter, small invertebrates, and detritus.

Overall, digging behavior is a natural and essential part of hermit crab survival, offering protection, moisture conservation, shelter from extreme conditions, and access to food.