Handling Troubles

[GlennFrog]

I want to begin holding my veiled girl more so that she isn't so afraid of me, but she's really scared of my hand. I recently watched the videos from screameleons (sorry I can't find the link) about proper and improper handling techniques; i.e. don't come from behind, start slowly from underneath them, etc. I tried the proper way and she ran like crazy from me. I understand that each cham has a unique personality and that they don't need to be handled at all, I guess I'm just looking for some hope that I can hold her eventually without stressing her out unduly. Any help/advice in this area is greatly appreciated, even if it's just that I should stop trying. Thanks for reading.

 

[Adman]

How old is she and how long have you had her?
I've had my veiled since he was about 3 months old, and for a long time he always shied away from me whenever I tried to handle him, it took time, then one day after a few months he suddenly really took being held, like it was out of nowhere and I was totally surprised. Now if I place my hand in front of him he doesn't hesitate to climb aboard, absolutely no fear. Not all chameleons take to being held unfortunately, they are primarily aesthetic pets, but given time she may shift and surprise you.

 

[York1]

My male is almost 2 years old and is the antichrist. I tried everything and he just never came around to being held. I love him tho and think its funny when he bows up at me whenever I am cleaning the cage

 

[GlennFrog]

She's approx 6-7 mos old. I've had her since Christmas 2014. I've only been trying to handle her more recently, like the last few days or so. I'm not expecting her to take to me immediately, but it's kind of strange because she lets me get close and under her, but as soon as I try to lift up to get her onto my hand she freaks out. I think maybe it's just a matter of time and trust but I was hoping for some shortcuts.

 

[Adman]

Maybe try less picking her up straight away and more placing your hand in her path when she's walking around. I found this an effective method to get my little guy used to walking onto my hand, as if helping rid him of the fear of contact with me. She may not take to it straight away and may turn away from your hand when you do, if she does don't worry about it, just try again later on.

 

[GlennFrog]

Sounds like a plan to me. I'll keep an eye on her for when she's on the move and try to intercept her. I'm prepared to put time into this. Thanks for the help everyone.

 

[repdog]

Thanks for starting this topic. I have had mine for a month and doesn't even like me opening the cage door. Which is fine with me I still have half the cage covered so we moved from the whole cage to half of it. I'm thinking in a year I should be able to get him to come out.

Gleenfrog I understand the shortcuts if any are out there. They are just so cool, I just sit and stare at the cage when I can.