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I have a baby alligator, about 8 inches in length. When I first got him, he was pretty docile (I could pick him up with ease). Now, he hisses and snaps at me if I try and pick him up. Am I doing something wrong, how can I make him more agreeable?

Thanks for the help.

Edited on November 15, 2010 at 08:56:31 by PHFaust.

That's a good thing. A healthy crocodilian is one full of piss and vinegar. Don't forget at the age he is now everything wants to eat them so to them your a large predator. Alligators usually calm down as they get bigger because less fear. Don't handle to much can cause damage because of stress and lead to things like stop eating. Remember this is an alligator you own not a dog having fight in them means healthy.
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Tom
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Lots Of Fish

It sounds like it's doing what it should be doing! Our little 2 foot yearling has decided he needs to flail around anytime I've got to move him for cleaning...on the other hand, our 6 footer is one of the most relaxed crocodilians I've ever been around. Just try not to stress it out, and like the other poster said, remember to your gator you're a potential predator! So, leave it alone and let him do his thing.

If you do have to pick him up, don't hesitate. Just pick him up. If you're unsure of yourself and hesitate and sort of take your sweet time trying to pick him up, you're going to get bit. If you've absolutely got to handle him (for cleaning or whatever) just be sure of yourself, and pick him up. Best time to learn that is NOW...or else what are you going to do when you're pet is much larger and capable of doing significant damage?

interesting theory...
I get the point, though I almost got tagged by a baby spec that way. Nonchalantly went to pick him up and he spun just as I was about 2 inches from grabbing him.
These days I throw a little wet hand towel (I cut it from a larger one) on his head. I figure I can be brave and possibly get tagged, or look like a coward but practice plenty for when he's bigger and be more assured of safety.

I'm also constantly battling with the balance of getting him used to handling for routine stuff but at the same time not over stressing him. Anyone else battling this issue?

Mr. F
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Real time Rogue, a captive Palp

I would say your hatchling is exhibiting normal behavior. I have dealt with hundreds of hatchlings before. Generally they are not aggressive at all. The fact that your hatchling is hissing and trying to act badass is proof that he is acclimating just fine to you. I would not hesitate to handle him/her at all.
Good call on getting Mazuri crocodilian diet. I like it a lot.
Baby gators are cute! Just ask Shawn Heflick LOL.
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Help me find this snake!