How do I get my chameleons to be less defensive and more friendly towards me?

[Andrew Lopez]

I have trouble getting my chameleons to come out of the cage without hissing or puffing their chest. How can I get them to come to me without getting defensive or scared

 

[Persnickety Parson's]

https://www.chameleonbreeder.com/podcast/ep-85-taming-your-chameleon/

https://www.chameleonbreeder.com/podcast/ep-80-handling-your-chameleon/

https://www.chameleonbreeder.com/podcast/ep-82-holding-angry-chameleons/

Listen to these.

 

[Gingero]

Lots of patience... and realizing that chameleons aren't animals that particularly enjoy handling.

 

[Alexander1]

Orrrrrrrr..... you can just let em be, enjoy them doing there thing. You can try hand feeding them and over time maybe they can tolerate you, I have a veiled that hates my guys a, love em.

 

[Persnickety Parson's]

Orrrrrrrr..... you can just let em be, enjoy them doing there thing. You can try hand feeding them and over time maybe they can tolerate you, I have a veiled that hates my guys a, love em.

I don't think it's realistic to try and discourage from handling before they've tried to form a bond with their pet. Especially a first time chameleon. *However* if after a reasonable attempt has been made, or the animal is chronically stressed then it's time to relegate said animal to the look but no touch category.

We are fighting against our own human nature on this issue.

I think it becomes easier with more experience, once you've handled one, or got it semi tolerant of you, it's far easier to leave them be.