Did you know that hermit crabs are born without shells? Because their bodies are so fragile, hermit crabs search beaches to find the perfect shell to live in. Unfortunately, due to humans collecting many shells and the large amounts of trash washing up on our beaches, these little creatures are left with fewer and fewer options for homes. Looks like we're not the only species experiencing a housing crisis.
The hermit crabs have to resort to using plastic for their shells because it's their only option. Well, this man is trying to change that. He founded the Hermit Crab Conservation Project, where he heads to the beach every single day to disperse shells that he gets through donations.
Since he started his project, he's dispersed over 5,000 shells in his area. He looks for a crab with a plastic home, which is quite common where he's at and gives them a few shell options to change into. He said it usually takes them 45 seconds to 30 minutes to make the switch, and once they do, he collects their discarded plastic and leaves them on their way.
The best part of the story is that the man also carves positive messages into each of the shells that he offers to the crabs. Why? Because he hopes that the messages will make someone's day. Some have dubbed him the "saint for homeless hermits," and we couldn't agree more.
See the full video below and follow along with his page to see all the crabs he helps along his journey!
Watch the full video below:
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