Hermit crabs line up biggest to smallest to exchange shells, and it’s mind-blowing to watch

The other day, I came across this post on my Facebook page describing the way hermit crabs exchange shells. Never having given hermit crabs any thought, I almost passed it up, but the bold text “ALL EXCHANGE SHELLS IN SEQUENCE SO EVERYONE GETS A NEW HOME” caught my eye. Like, what? I was astounded to…

Array
Photo credit: BBC/YouTube – Array

The other day, I came across this post on my Facebook page describing the way hermit crabs exchange shells. Never having given hermit crabs any thought, I almost passed it up, but the bold text “ALL EXCHANGE SHELLS IN SEQUENCE SO EVERYONE GETS A NEW HOME” caught my eye. Like, what?

I was astounded to find out that hermit crabs who need new, bigger shells will line up in a queue, biggest to smallest. When a crab that fits the largest empty shell shows up, the others all move up one shell, leaving the smallest shell empty at the end of the line.

Like, WHAT?!


I’m not one to believe every meme that comes through my social media feed, so I decided to research this myself. A 10-second Google search brought up a video of the entire process from the BBC and OH. MY. GOSH. This is seriously the best thing ever.

RELATED: Female orcas surrounded this grieving mom in a heartbreaking circle of solidarity.

If you’re feeling the need to escape the news, watch this wholesome, under-recognized wonder of nature take place:

Pets

See the 18 incredible finalists of the 2026 Dog Photography Awards-including one profound pit bull

Culture

Comedian captures the mysterious joy of checking the pockets in an old winter coat for the first time

People Skills

The 4 words that can keep conversation flowing forever, even between socially awkward people

Culture

Gen Xers share 17 nostalgic dishes they ate growing up—and still make for dinner