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A leopard gecko is a very special pet. It is one of the few reptiles that enjoys being handled, but only if you do it right. If you mishandle your gecko, you could end up with a cranky or even vicious pet.
Steps
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1Move your hand slowly towards the gecko so it can see your hand. Make sure it knows that it is just your hand. Gently slide your fingers under the belly with your hand on top of the gecko.[1]
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2Move gently. Don't squeeze the gecko as this can injure, anger, or scare it.[2]
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3Pick it up slowly and take it out of its cage. When handling it, just let it crawl around or sit on your arm or hand. Enjoy your new friend.[3]
Community Q&A
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QuestionHow can I get my gecko used to my hand when she is afraid of it?
Community AnswerLeave your hand, palm up, flat on the bottom on the tank for about 5 to 10 minutes each day. Be sure to move your hand slowly while putting it into (and out of) the tank. Don't pick your gecko up right away when she crawls onto your palm. Instead, let her crawl around for a bit before moving your fingers. If you can perk up your fingers without scaring your gecko, you can try lifting your hand. -
QuestionCan I still hold my gecko if he is shedding?
CourtneyLaurenCommunity AnswerYes, but it would be best if you did not. -
QuestionIf my leopard gecko doesn't trust me, will he ever trust me?
Community AnswerYes, he will trust you if you handle him properly, feed him right, and spend a lot of time with him. -
QuestionWhy won't my leopard gecko sit still with me?Community AnswerA leopard gecko usually will not sit still unless is is very tame and relaxed.
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QuestionWill this work on an older gecko?
Community AnswerYes, but it may take longer, depending on whether or not the gecko is accustomed to seeing you or your hand. -
QuestionWhy is my gecko's tail so fat? Isn't that unhealthy?Community AnswerThe fatter tail, the healthier gecko. That is fat reserves for brumation, a kind of hibernating, and also for egg laying to keep from losing weight.
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QuestionWhat if my gecko is already a few years old and hasn't seen my hand before?Community AnswerDon't be worried; they are easy to tame. Follow these steps, and you will be fine.
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QuestionAre corn snakes or leopard geckos smarter, and which one is more active?Community AnswerA leo is smarter, but a corn snake is more active. A leo can be trained, but a corn snake always tries to escape.
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QuestionIs the procedure any different if the leopard gecko is a baby?CourtneyLaurenCommunity AnswerJust be more careful.
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QuestionWhat should I do if my gecko runs when he's in my hand?
Community AnswerPut your other hand in front and repeat this process until he stops or you can put him down.
Warnings
- If your gecko hisses or opens his mouth as though it will bite, don't touch it.Thanks!
- Geckos can be stubborn. Sometimes, getting your gecko used to you can take a while.Thanks!
- Wash your hands after handling. Reptiles can spread diseases such as Salmonella.[5]Thanks!
References
- ↑ https://www.wagstowiskers.com/pupdates/2018/10/10/6-tips-to-get-your-leopard-gecko-to-trust-you
- ↑ https://www.reptifiles.com/leopard-gecko-care/leopard-gecko-handling-body-language/
- ↑ https://www.wagstowiskers.com/pupdates/2018/10/10/6-tips-to-get-your-leopard-gecko-to-trust-you
- ↑ http://www.reptilesmagazine.com/Care-Sheets/Lizards/Leopard-Gecko/
- ↑ https://m.petmd.com/reptile/care/caring-baby-gecko
