My Cham is scared of me

[Mofire]

I've had Chroma (female veiled) for about a week now. She's a juvenile around 4-5 weeks old. Although she's generally comfortable when I am around, she tends to back off when I move my hand too close. I've been working on hand feeding her (to great success) for almost the entirety of the time I've had her, though I can't get her to be comfortable near my hand. I've been patient with her, hand feeding and holding my hand palm up near her to see if she will crawl onto it, but she doesn't. Any advice? or does this just take more time?

 

[rminnis]

It will take lots of time and a slow and steady hand and even with all that most do not enjoy being held or touched! Its a hard thing for most new owners realizing they arent really that kind of pet. They almost always prefer being left alone!

 

[sebastianthechameleon]

Usually, chameleons aren't good with hands. After a while, they will back off and feel less comfortable around you. My chameleon is 8 months and i only handle him if I'm cleaning the cage or checking his skin. If you're looking for a friendly animal a chameleon isn't going to be your best option. If you're looking for something to hold i prefer a bearded dragon. Chameleons will sometimes develop and attitude, and like a teenager, stay away from all human contact.

 

[rminnis]

I totally agree when mine was smaller he was much less scardish. They love to hide if they are in the open they feel uncomfortable if someone else can see em.

 

[rambonerzilla]

Welcome to the my chameleon hates me club you are far from alone. We are strong in numbers!

 

[Remkon]

i had him eating from my hand but suddenly he doesn't anymore... Guess he didn't appreciate me moving him back in to the house.

 

[Link]

That is right you are not alone. I have many Panthers. I have one that jumps out of the cage and bites me everyday. You're in good company

 

[Andee]

Chameleons do everything extremely slow, give her time and she will likely come around if you don't rush it. However there is definitely a possibility of her not being a handliable chameleon. Chameleons will do what they decide and there's not much you can do to change their mind except keep trying to get on their good side.