Site-Wide Activity

  • erbaker posted an update 8 years, 9 months ago

    Well, about a month ago, we found what appeared to be the remnants of Harold inside his shell half buried in the sand. As it appeared to be most of his body, including the entire exoskeleton, we believed that he had passed. We discarded the body mournfully, and regretfully. It was quite a shock to us, as he had seemed to be lively and happy, prior…[Read more]

  • erbaker posted an update 9 years ago

    Now we can’t stop them! These guys are changing shells like it is going out of style. Sheldon has changed into one of the green turbo’s, as has Harold! The trick was simply pouring some salt water inside of the shells. This seemed to really entice them into those new shells. I read that the reasoning behind this is that it gives the impression of…[Read more]

  • I have read a little about insectariums, but have never seen one. Does anyone have any cool images of their ant farms or tarantula habitats they would like to share? I would love to see them! Also, would ant farms be considered an insectarium? I don’t know why not, as it would be providing them with a sustainable living environment. Anyway, show them off!

  • erbaker posted an update 9 years, 1 month ago

    Well, Sheldon has been buried in the same spot since yesterday, but Harold keeps moving to a different hidey hole. Both are burrowed down, so now just waiting for something to happen. Excited about the first molt, though a little nervous about how long it takes. I read that they can stay burrowed for up to a month and a half… seems like a long…[Read more]

  • erbaker posted an update 9 years, 1 month ago

    Well, no move yet. It looks like they both are getting ready to molt as they are burrowed down in the coco coir. Perhaps once they are done they will feel more motivated to make a move. I will keep you updated on any new developments!

  • erbaker posted an update 9 years, 1 month ago

    Success! I was doing some shopping in the craft section at WalMart yesterday, and decided to peek at the shells in their wedding section. There were these bags of large shells, and I could see some that looked like they might be appropriate, so I decided to give it a shot. I was shocked to find close to a dozen turbo shells, and several other…[Read more]

  • erbaker posted an update 9 years, 1 month ago

    Been looking for more shells for Sheldon. Finding the right one in the right sizes is hard! His current opening is 1.5″ and finding replacements in that size is proving to be a challenge (and most I find are expensive). Anyone have any suggestions on where to get larger hermit crab shells that are appropriate for a purple pincher?

  • erbaker posted an update 9 years, 1 month ago

    Switched out our hermit crab substrate from Perlite to Coco Coir, and our guys are thriving! It is easier for them to burrow into the coco coir, and our humidity is much higher. The setup that we have allows them to move around a plant to get in the sun or shade, and offers a good temperature gradient throughout. I am very pleased that they are…[Read more]

  • Hi Guys!
    Let’s see… I am a mother, wife, Master of Marketing, and animal lover.
    The blend between nature and humanity has always interested me, and although we choose to live indoors, I feel like there should a better blend between our worlds.
    Why don’t we all live in giant greenhouses with grass carpet?
    I feel like there is a better way, and…[Read more]

  • erbaker posted an update 9 years, 2 months ago

    Just ordered some coco coir to change our substrate for our hermit crabs. We haven’t found anything really about using perlite, but are afraid that it could do damage if left in there long term, so don’t want to take any risks. Want these guys to be as happy and healthy as possible!

  • erbaker posted an update 9 years, 2 months ago

    We updated the hermit crabitat this weekend. Added a large jade pot into the middle to help increase the humidity and provide different areas of light and shade so they can pick the spot they like the best for hanging out. So far so good!

  • I am a huge fan of turtles, and even have a couple that dwell in my home. However, I am looking to create an aquaponics system for growing some basic garden vegetables and herbs, and want to know if anyone has had experience using turtles in a similar type system? Do you know if there are any health reasons why turtles wouldn’t be a good choice?…[Read more]

  • erbaker posted an update 9 years, 2 months ago

    Had a scare this morning! I thought my hermit crab had passed since he didn’t respond when I picked him up, or behave as he normally does. Turns out he was just sleeping! Very reassuring, but scary at the same time. I’m hoping these guys like their new home and that we are able to give them long, healthy lives.

  • So we just got 2 new land hermit crabs while visiting in FL. We have provided them with new shells, one has fully adopted a new shell, and the other has tried a couple out but decided he wanted his old shell back. Currently we are keeping them in a rinsed perlite with no additives. Does anyone know if this is a safe substrate, or have any…[Read more]

  • erbaker posted an update 9 years, 2 months ago

    Just saw pics from the Ripley’s Aquarium in Gatlinburg. Reminded me of our trip there. It is really a very nice aquarium with a large variety of animals. The tunnels and walkways allow you to have visual access to underwater life without getting wet! If you are in town at any point, it is one of the best things to do for an afternoon in Gatlinburg!

  • erbaker posted an update 9 years, 2 months ago

    I love this style of terrarium! They look like miniature green houses- would make a beautiful display piece in any home! Want one of my own!

  • erbaker started the topic Octopus Aquarium in the forum Saltwater 9 years, 2 months ago

    I am interested in starting up an octopus aquarium, but have some questions. Does anyone have any experience raising octopus in a tank? What is the best resource for information? Also, any recommendations as far as breeds or preferred breeders to buy from? Any help you can give me will be appreciated! Thanks!

  • I would love to see some cool vivarium setups, either your own, or your favorite ones you have seen online. Please give credit where it is due if the vivarium you are posting is not your own. Tell us about any natural plant life you have used, what type of critters call it home, whatever you would like to share! Looking forward to seeing all your…[Read more]

  • erbaker became a registered member 9 years, 3 months ago

    • Beautiful Image! Do you know what kind of frog that is? He seems to have found a good hideout- much needed for such a tiny guy!