New Veiled very defensive towards people. How can i earn his trust?

[volleyball21]

My male Veiled Chameleon isn't friendly at all! He is always dark colored except for when he sleeps. He runs away from anyone who puts their hand into his cage and bites if they are to close. Because of this, feeding and misting his cage is a hassle. Is his behavior because of something I am doing wrong? His cage is a wired 24 X 24 X 36. Temperature at 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Mist 2 times per day and feed him 3 crickets every 2-3 days. The two light bulbs are a UVB and a 75W basking light. Am I doing something wrong? PLEASE HELP

 

[christineacero]

He definitely needs WAAAYYY more crickets than that! What size of crickets are you feeding him? He needs plenty of food sources besides just crickets as well (hornworms, silkworms, roaches etc...).

As far as his attitude towards you, patience is key. If he's new, he is most likely very stressed out which is why he is dark in color. You can try cup feeding him while holding the cup or hand feeding to try and gain his trust. Eventually he will come to associate you with food and shy away less and less. Respect his space and if he hisses at you, consider that a warning and leave him alone. Some chams are naturally unfriendly and some are very sociable. Just be patient and take your time with him and hopefully he'll come around.

For the next few days, try not to bother with him in his cage and let him get used to his new surroundings. You might find him more friendly with you once he becomes comfortable.

 

[Olimpia]

How old is he? That is definitely very little food if you have a baby or a young juvie. Even as an adult 3 crickets is a little too little.

What Christine says is all spot on about trying to gain his trust. Try not to reach in and try to grab him, that's just going to make him feel defensive. Earn his trust with food first and then slowly work up towards handling. Patience patience patience!

Here's a write up I did that has worked to tame my chameleons.

 

[Psychobunny]

I have a taming blog also, and it may help you.

You do not want to reach your hand into their cage.
They can feel threatened and helpless if they are not totally comfortable around you.

Here is a link to my taming blog:

https://www.chameleonforums.com/blogs/psychobunny/746-taming-chameleon.html

Patience!!

 

[junglefries]

After he settles in, you can try using a stick to let him come to you. Much easier to tame when they crawl on to your arm, when it is their decision. Be aware, some veils, especially large males, have SHARP claws. More like mini daggers.