Ouch!

So, you know those chelipeds? Yeah...it turns out hermit crabs really DO use those as a defense mechanism when they feel threatened, nervous, stressed out, or afraid...and they pinch HARD!

Unfortunately, both Mrs. D. and the first student brave enough to handle the hermies found that out the hard way!

As a consolation prize, the student who was pinched received a Crab Master statue, along with an apology note from Mr. Crabs...according to him, he was very thankful that the student had not hurt him (even though what he did HURT!) and he shared that he was embarrassed of his actions...

What did we learn? Until our crabby crabs are comfortable in their new home, and with us, they should NOT be placed in the palms of our hands. When we need to handle them, we will be sure to grasp them firmly on the shell, keep them close to our cupped hand in case they fall but NOT on our skin, and we will quickly and gently place them down safely.

Also, Mrs. D. is on the hunt for some thick gloves...