When is it a good idea to start handling?

SaIiLdVaEnR · 08-02-04, 06:17 PM

At what age or size for a gecko is it an appropriate time to start handling them? Thanks in advance,

Aidan

Tim and Julie B · 08-02-04, 06:31 PM

At about 3-4 weeks you can introduce yourself by placing your hand inside the tank and wait for the gecko to approach you. When it starts to climb onto your hands then you can try lifting it gently in your hand just above the tank surface, that way if it jumps off it won't get hurt. Try petting it also and touch its feet and head. Eventually it will realize you aren't a threat and won't try to jump or run away. Then you can pick it up and should have no problems

Julie

Samba · 08-03-04, 12:27 PM

The way I 'break' new or very young geckos is to first include something in their enclosure with my scent. (This is also worked on my Burmese python). A sock, shirt, whatever, and preferably something they will find cuddly and attractive to hide in. They get used to the smell, and associate it with comfort, not fear.

After awhile, like Julie suggested, I introduce my hand in there in a non-threatening way (slowly, limp, turned to the side) these things will help them feel at ease. Other than that, I basically do the same as Julie.

Also, it's important to get them used to being handled so that they somewhat prepared for it when being examined and touched by a veterinarian. My geckos are all used to having their feet, face (and mouth opened), tail and belly touched. When getting your gecko used to these touches it helps if you have warm hands (they like that).

Just be patient and remember they can sense your frustration and get scared, so be calm. When the geckos show signs of stress, let them back into their enclosure and try again another day. Hope this helps!

vwmom · 08-06-04, 03:28 AM

Dumb question here.. I've had geckos for years, but I have some babies for the first time as well.
If I'm to put my hand in, will they bite? I'm not worried about it hurting.. but concerned that it would startle me, causing me to pull back fast and scaring them. They're 4 and 10 week old fat tails.

DragnDrop · 08-06-04, 08:10 AM

Fatties are the calmest babies I've ever hatched out. They don't normally run away, they stay put on your hands for hours right out of the eggs. I've never ever had one get nasty, never seen one even attempt to bite. Leos are different, can defend themselves (or try), but I'm inclined to say fatties will just curl up and absorb some body heat from you.

Samba · 08-06-04, 11:56 AM

I agree... the trick is (especially with leos) to be prepared for the babies (or new leo) to be defenesive. If they bite don't withdrawl, just let them hang on for as long as they want. If they bark or bite and your hand disappears you could be very well teaching them that this is a successful tactic and acceptable (which it is not - especially when handling is neccessary). Just be calm, and prepared for whatever they do... don't be afraid of a bite... it's never that bad.

Fat-tails are extremely calm and laid back geckos... as adults and babies... they shouldn't have an exaggerated reaction like some baby leos and I think you'll have some very good luck with them.

Let us know how they do!