Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have a 4 year old common Nile and I have never once used gloves when handling him. I find if you keep the claws trimmed and smooth you don't have scratching problems. I never had a biting problem or an aggression problem and I'm just wondering why everyone is using them so often? I looked through the photo galleries and 9 out of 10 pics are gloved!

I find if they can SMELL you then can get to KNOW YOU. If you block your scent they are going to be uneasy. Just make sur you wash your hands so you don't have food smell and invite and unwanted nip.

Gigi

I don't clip any of my monitors' claws because they have a lot of climbing area in their enclosure and can climb more efficiently with claws. Their comfort is more important than mine.

I occasionally use gloves with my largest animal, for his weight drives his needle sharp claws deep into flesh even when he is relaxed. I thought gloves might be a good idea when people started commenting on the 'trackmarks' on my forearms.