My pair do not run away from you when you approach, the female will sit on your lap and loves to be petted for awhile (her call) until she wants to explore elsewhere. The boy is only interested in where he can get to next, a real wiggle worm. Neither one bites or tail whips. I can reach in the cage at any time and scratch the sides of their cheeks and they just close their eyes and relax. They are really cute to watch and love to dig, climb and bask. I love them and would recommend them as first monitors due to their size and decent dispositions. Of course like any animals, you will find different temperments, but I think in general they will make wonderful additions to your herp collections.
Pam