Where to Buy Coconut Crab: A Complete Guide

The coconut crab, also known as the robber crab or palm thief, is the largest land-living arthropod in the world. With their massive claws and incredible climbing abilities, these impressive crustaceans have captivated people for centuries But where can you actually buy a coconut crab to call your own? This complete guide covers everything you need to know about purchasing these incredible creatures

Found on islands across the Indian and Pacific Oceans coconut crabs are a highly unique species. They belong to the hermit crab family but grow up to 3 feet across and can weigh over 9 pounds. As juveniles, they do live in seashells. However, as adults they develop a hard abdominal shell and live their lives fully terrestrial.

Coconut crabs get their name from their ability to climb coconut palms and crack open the hard fruit. They also forage for fruits, nuts and seeds on the ground. With their massive claws, they can open just about anything!

These crabs grow slowly, taking over 5 years to reach full maturity. They also tend to be solitary and cover wide territories. Due to habitat loss and over-hunting for food, coconut crab populations have declined significantly in recent decades. They are listed as Data Deficient on the IUCN Red List.

Where to Buy Coconut Crabs

Coconut crabs can only be collected from their native islands, as they cannot be captive bred successfully. So getting one requires finding a specialized supplier. Here are some options:

Local Markets in the Pacific Islands

In parts of the Pacific where coconut crabs are a traditional food source, like the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, they can sometimes be found for sale in local markets. This is an opportunity to purchase crabs harvested in a sustainable manner by local communities.

Online Exotic Pet Retailers

A number of online retailers offer live coconut crabs for sale that they source directly from the Pacific Islands. Big Apple Herp, for example, is a major exotic pet supplier that gets periodic shipments of coconut crabs.

The downside of online sources is that you can’t always verify how the animal was collected. Be sure to ask questions about sustainability practices before purchasing.

Direct from Pacific Island Suppliers

Some niche suppliers based in the Pacific Islands export coconut crabs to the international pet trade. This provides more transparency into the source, but can be logistically challenging.

Your best bet is connecting with a crab exporter based in the region that focuses on sustainability, like Crab Company Fiji. They harvest crabs in remote locations away from villages.

Coconut Crab Pricing

Due to the costs and challenges of collecting coconut crabs, they are one of the most expensive pets you can buy. Here are some typical price ranges:

• $500 – $600 for a 8-10 inch crab
• $700 – $1,000 for a 10-12 inch crab
• $1,000 – $1,500 for a 12-15 inch mature adult

Larger, older crabs tend to cost more. Prices also vary based on the source and availability. Expect to pay a premium for captive bred specimens, which are rare.

Important Care Tips

Coconut crabs require very specialized care. Before purchasing, make sure you can provide the following:

• Large habitat: A minimum of a 6 ft x 3 ft enclosure with lots of climbing space.

• High humidity: Maintain 70-80% humidity and ample substrate.

• Warm temperatures: About 80°F with basking area in the 90s.

• Varied diet: Omnivorous, including fruit, vegetables, seed and some animal protein.

• Permits: Some areas require special permits to keep coconut crabs.

Do ample research to ensure you can properly care for one of these fascinating animals!

Where to Find Coconut Crabs for Sale

While owning a coconut crab is not for everyone, their unique features make them coveted by collectors. Here are some top places to purchase coconut crabs:

• Big Apple Herp – A major online exotic retailer that gets periodic shipments of coconut crabs sustainably sourced from the Pacific Islands.

• Local pet stores – Some specialty exotic pet stores work with niche suppliers to source coconut crabs. Check stores near you.

• Exotic pet fairs – Vendors offering all kinds of exotic species sometimes have coconut crabs for sale. Attend a fair near you to check availability.

• Crab Company Fiji – A dedicated coconut crab exporter in Fiji focused on sustainable harvesting. Can ship crabs internationally.

• Pacific Island communities – If visiting a Pacific locale where coconut crabs thrive, check with local communities that harvest crabs about purchasing directly.

Purchasing Your Coconut Crab Responsibly

Because coconut crabs are Data Deficient and facing population declines, it’s extremely important to purchase humanely sourced specimens through trusted retailers.

Avoid buying from unknown suppliers, as you won’t know if the animal was sustainably wild-caught or illegally poached. Always ask questions about how the crab was collected and handled.

With their unique appearance and behaviors, coconut crabs can be fascinating pets. But they require highly advanced care and a commitment to responsible sourcing. By following this guide, your new coconut crab can thrive under your care.