Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hey there folks. I have a question about moving my male caimen. He is easily 5 ft long and isn't handled often. Just twice a year to go to the vet. Last time I pulled him out of his enclosure he was no where near the size he is now. I am curious as to any methods anyone might know of to make life easier on both him and I when catching him to pull him out. Is a snake pole a viable option, or is it a better idea to just jump in on top of him and go to work? Any input would be great. Thanks again.
Chris.

I would not recommend a snake pole and I would not recommend just jumping on him and going to work. This could cause major stress on the caimen not to mention possibly get you injured. Keep in mind at that size they are very fast and can cause serious injury. One thing I recommend if possible is have someone assist you in removing the caimen and securing the jaws. Theres two ways you could approach him. If he is very aggresive as in moving towards you when you try to catch him you could easily throw a towel or blanket over the head to cover the eyes then approach him from the rear and secure him. If you do this method remember not to leave the towel over the nostril area for to long. The other way is if he retreats from you during the catch pull him by his tail towards you while quickly moving your other hand under him to secure the chest and head. Keep in mind if he moves quicker then you or decides to turn you could get injured in this method. Also these thoughts are what have worked for me in the past on similar size crocodilians. Hope this helps and good luck. Jason

Hey thanks for the info. I do appreciate. I will be making the move on Sunday. Would there be any harm in securing their jaws the night before and leaving them in their enclosure overnight before the move, or would this be too long a period of time? Also, are rubberbands considered an acceptable means to secure their jaws? Thanks again.
Chris

I wouldnt recommend securing the night before. Rubberbands are ok but just remember you have to make sure what ever you use that it doesnt slide over the nostrils during transport. In a "best case situation" leave the jaw unsecured during the transport. Also keep in mind the caimen can claw at the rubberband and possibly push it over its nostrils. Hope this helps. Jason

Thanks for the advice everyone. The move went smoothly and they love their new enclosure. I hope to have pics of it up shortly. My male is eating already and female is nibbling a little here and there. I would guess she will be back to her self in a matter of days. Thanks again for helping me out on this one. Take care
Chris

Don't use a snare. You can harm his neck. See my post a few days ago about moving.