Tips for necessary handling

[AnOwlsChat]

Hello everyone! I am new to the chameleon community. I have only had my little guy a week and have not even decided on a name yet! (partially because I was not sure if it was a male or female at first, I've spotted the small 'spurs' on the back feet though so I am guessing male!)

My question is about handling. I know most chameleons like to be left in the cage and keep to themselves. I got my little guy out once a couple days ago and every time I have placed my hand in the cage near him since then he hisses at me and goes to hide in the foliage He is a fantastic hider, sometimes I truly can not find him. I do not want to stress him out and have no plans to handle him often. I would however like to be able to take him out to weigh him and when the cage needs to be cleaned. Ideally I would like to him tolerate that. Any advice? I do bring my hand in from below as to not feel threatening. I have tried just putting my hand in the cage and holding it there so he can become familiar with me but not really associate me with touching.

Thank you for any tips, I am so excited to start this adventure!

 

[Andee]

Don't handle him or try to for 2 weeks at least, you can do spot cleaning and feeding etc. You shouldn't need to do anything until then unless an emergency crops up. Until then let him settle.

 

[kinyonga]

Try using holdomg a branch in front of him and encouraging him from behind to move onto the branch by bringing your hand up behind him.