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Crested Gecko Handling Question

K

KidBluey

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I've been reading up on Crested Geckos for quite awhile now and it seems they just might be quite fitting in my search for a new reptile since they don't need insects or heat. My question is, do cresties for the most part tolerate handling well? Just wanting to know because I may be getting one soon and it'll be my first one. Do they tolerate heavy handling a few times a week or every so often? I want something that I can handle from time to time but not something that I can handle for 5 minutes in then have to put it back to avoid stress and health issues.
 
Yes, I'd have to say that of all the gecko species I've kept, cresties are the most calm when handled. But keep in mind that every gecko has a different temperament. I have some that are so chill you have to peel them off when you're done holding them and then others that are complete freaks when you get them out of their enclosures and want to have nothing to do with you.
 
I've got one that's an absolute nut and won't have anything to do with handling. I also have a few that I hand fed from a hatchling and they're dog tame. Slowly and over time, some will let you hold them better than others. Excessive handling can also create problems, so you have to be careful. I generally try to handle mine 2-3 times a week and they seem to respond to that (I also feed them, so they may just be responding to the "Food Guy").
 
Depending on individual temperament, like mentioned above, they can be quite handleable. They can get stressed and drop their tails, which don't grow back, but many adults are calm and still have their tails.

I would give a new arrival a few weeks with minimal handling before doing longer sessions, even if you get one that is very calm, as a new home can be very stressful to adapt to.
 
My Gizmo loves to come out and hang with the hubby and me. When we open the tank he comes right to the top and climbs into our hand. Sometimes when I have him out I will hand feed him CGD or mashed banana and applesauce, most of the time though he just likes to hang out on our shoulder. We usually keep him out for 5-10 minutes. Sometimes hubby keeps him out a little longer as he does chores.
 
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