Hermit Crabs live on the ocean floor. Their skin is hard, except for the abdomen, which is soft.

To protect this "soft spot," the hermit crab borrows a shell and makes this its "house."

Then only its face, feet and claws stick out from the shell. That way, it can see, walk and catch its food.

When a hermit crab is threatened, it withdraws into its shell until the danger has passed.

Pub Date: 5/17/98