Handling Tips Needed

[Zack Wilke]

I've had my Argentine Black & White tegu for about a month now. He just lost his green coloration so I can assume that he's a monthling? In previous experiences with him, I would put my hand in the cage to lightly pet him, but he just wouldn't have it. He'd run away and dig. The furthest I've got is him letting me pet his back while he froze, but I realized that I was stressing him out, so I left him alone. He never unburrows unless I dig him out to eat. I was wondering if this is just a phase, or if he may be sick? Any tips about handling would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Walter1]

If he's always under the substrate that's under the basking light, then the basking light isn't hot enough. that aside, tegues love to sleep, especially during winter.Dig him up and handle him.

 

[loweryrr]

What walter said. He will always be under stress until he gets use to being held no matter how long you have him. Best answer is hold him some every day. Start off with 15 minute intervals and slowly increase it over time. If you have a pillow case try putting him in it in the evenings and let it set on your lap. He will feel like he is hidden and will get time with you. Everyone wins

 

[Zack Wilke]

I appreciate the time guys! He stays away from the basking light unless he just got done eating, and I know that that's for digestive purposes. I've never had a tegu be this shy. He will breath exceptionally deep when I even put my hand in the cage, which I know is from stress. I just put my shirt in there because I read that it works. The other two Argentines that I had warmed up to me within a week. I just don't want to stress him out too much. I'm intrigued about the pillow case method.. I've never heard of it. How do I coax him in there?

 

[Zack Wilke]

Also, when I pick him up, he tries to take off like he's on the ground.

 

[Zack Wilke]

I dug him out, and he is watching me closely

 

[Walter1]

Dig him out and loosely hanle him. Scoot him in a pillow case and set it on your lap. Take charge- you'll be fine.

 

[Zack Wilke]

Thanks!