Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I got my first BD about 4 weeks ago. He's roughly 6 inches. I gave him about 10 days with no contact to get used to his surroundings.

Then i started handling him. Every day it is the same thing. I try to pick him up and he runs around everywhere, freaking out. Once i get him in my hand, he calms down a bit but is still fairly flighty (he jumped out of my hand once, it was over a desk, so he only fell about a foot).

I hold him for about 3 minutes then put him back. I do this several times a day, but instead of getting calmer, its almost like he tries to run away more. What am i doing wrong? How do you guys get your beardeds to calm down? I assumed it would take time, but after 3 weeks i think i must be doing something wrong. Any help will be appreciated
-----
Scott,
Proud owner of
0.0.1 Bearded dragon (Lance)
2.0.0 Rats (George and Lenny)
0.0.5 Red Belly Piranhas in a 75g tank

how are you picking up your beardie...you should approach him from the front palm upwards and scoop him into your hand...maybe try petting him more often while he is in his tank without picking him up to get him more used to you being near...

give it time....

and realize they have a normal "run for cover" instinct.

and that a young dragon is like a young child growing like mad and with a ton of energy.

i'd be worried if a young dragon was too docile, i'd be checking for lack of food, low temps or parasites if he was to calm and just sat there.

so just go slow and let him learn your handling him is not a threat and try to give him some veggies or a worm while on your hand. or rub a sheding spot... he'll learn.
-----
This space reserved for future use...