Start handling

[AnzacsMum]

Hiya
What is the best way to start handling my 5 week old Beardie?
He loves it if you put your hand in the viv and tickle under his chin, how do we go from that to handling him without freaking him out. he love to run around if you try to put him on your hand. Is he doing this because he is scared or just a baby playing?

Thanks for your help
Ann

 

[cfjustin]

Hiya
What is the best way to start handling my 5 week old Beardie?
He loves it if you put your hand in the viv and tickle under his chin, how do we go from that to handling him without freaking him out. he love to run around if you try to put him on your hand. Is he doing this because he is scared or just a baby playing?

Thanks for your help
Ann

Hey Ann,

Well if hes moving into your hand or on it, that's a good sign. Check for stress marks but if he isn't getting defensive then just keep handling him often.

 

[CooperDragon]

If you want to try and pick him up, always approach from the front rather than from above. Put his front two hands on one hand and then lift a little. Put the back two feet on your other hand then lift him up. They don't like to be off balance at all and will squirm like crazy if they don't have all of their hands off the ground at the same time. They like to perch on a forearm and once comfortable with you, they'll climb up to your shoulder then up onto your head. Keep a close eye out for them jumping from up high. They don't have the best depth perception and will lunge at things and fall short. Be prepared to catch them =)

 

[Cat93]

Just thought I'd add even when they are comfortable with handling, babies do tend to be more fidgety , and love to run around like little bandits. They calm down much more with age

 

[Tonja]

Every baby is different. I started handling Emmett right away. He never stressed when being handled but, if he ran and didn't want to be I would leave him be and try later. Bedtime is the best way to start. When they are sleepy take them out, wrap him in something soft and put him on your chest. He should settle in and do a little butt wiggle and go to sleep. Even while sleeping you can still cuddle him a bit, then put him in his tank wrapped up and he should stay that way all night long.