I found a #MTS4N seashell on Okinawa. What should I do?

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So far, I have placed over six hundred marked turbo seashells in the coastal forest for hermit crabs in need. The shells are marked and numbered with the hashtag #mts4n ( Make The Switch For Nature ). Hopefully, labeling the surface of the seashells will prevent poachers, beachcombers, and fishers from taking them.

Hermit crabs are a national living monument species of Japan. It is against the law to collect them. Take photos only!

What to do if you find a #MTS4N or #MILLER shell

  • Take a photograph of the Hermit crab in its natural habitat
  • Enjoy the moment and do not harass it
  • Share on social media and tag #mts4n
  • Document your observation on iNaturalist
  • These occupied shells are not collectibles, do not take them
Mts4n hermit crab okinawa

What to do if you find a hermit crab adapting with plastic

  • Take a photograph of the hermit crab in its original habitat
  • Leave the hermit crab alone and do not harass it
  • Send me a DM with the exact beach location
  • I will place empty shells in the coastal forest for the hermit crabs
Hermit crabs living in our trash
Hermit crabs and our waste

How often have you picked up an empty shell and brought it home? I am guilty. Most people don’t realize that they are taking the potential home of a hermit crab. If you are a shell collector, please return all unwanted shells to the coastline. #taketrashnothomes

It’s crucial to protect these beautiful creatures for future generations. Hermit crabs play an essential role in the coastal ecosystem. Hermit crabs do not belong in cages; please leave them in their natural habitat.

Miller Hermit crab Okinawa


Help me make a difference by supporting The #MST4N Hermit Crab Conservation Project. Please check out my Patreon page, MakeTheSwitch4Nature. I will collect a bucket full of marine debris for every supporting member. Our waste is a massive problem on our beautiful shorelines.

Do you have any seashells collecting dust at home? If so, consider giving them back to nature. #taktrashnothomes

  • The Mission of the #MTS4N conservation project is to spread joy, inspire change, and save lives.

Click on the donation link below to help fund Shawn’s conservation projects.

Interview On the Kelly Clarkson Show
Making the switch 4 nature
Featured On AFN Okinawa