Hi Martin,

Listen, I've got an Egyptian Microlepis Uromastyx that I've had for about 10 years now. He still whips his tail if I get too close to him from some angles and sudden motions will almost surely cause him to whip and run to his hide. At 18" tol, a tail whip direct hit from him will draw some serious blood. So I typically give him a wide birth, or allow him to see everything I do. If I'm not using both hands, I hide one behind my back so he isn't worried about it. He has amazing eyesight.

Here's the thing you've got to understand. These creatures are the product of thousands of years of breeding. Their brains are puny and most of what they do is based on all of those years of instinctual survivalist behavior. In the wild, their tail and speed are their only self defense. So don't expect to "train" him to keep that tail under control and become docile. It's no more in their nature than it is for a snake to stop striking at prey.

You'll need the patience of Job if you truly expect to make any headway. Here's a couple of tips, make your motions slow and predictable when around your uro. Always remain where he can keep an eye on you. If you want to give him a treat, offer a nice fresh dandelion flower. My Gus loves 'em.

Finally, heed the words from those guys above. If things aren't going your way, you're likely stressing him out. Give him a break and try again later. Much later.

Good luck,
Craigo

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