[4] Adults burrow and hide under the roots of large trees, and can be found a considerable distance inland.

Female land hermit crabs release fertilized eggs into the ocean.

The spawning (called "washing" in the English-speaking Caribbean) occurs on certain nights, usually around August.

[2] The West Indian top snail (Cittarium pica) shell is often used for its home, and the hermit crab can use its larger claw to cover the aperture of the shell for protection against predators.

[3] As with other species of hermit crabs, C. clypeatus may engage in "shell fights" and can emit a chirping noise when stressed.