What's Up From Long Island!

[IAmCarl]

Hey All,

I just got my first Cham at the White Plains Expo! A Veiled that's about 9mos. old. Bought a 16x16x28 enclosure but I will be getting a larger one soon. I keep Cresteds, Chahouas and Gargs. Soon I will be getting a Uroplatus.

My Cham is just starting to settle in. He's eating mainly crickets with some superworms once a week. The only thing that bugs me is that he is a bit aggressive now, hissing and opening his mouth at me. I try to get close to him but he's a bit nervous. I hope in time I can change this . Anyway, I have been cruising around the site and really think it's great.

I would love a Jackson at some point as well.

I'll try and get some pics up soon.

Regards,

Rob

 

[dom1959]

i really have had success with just sitting in front of the cages with the door open, either surfing or reading. i feel the chams then see me as a "normal"
piece of their life. i always keep feeders next to me and show the feeders to them from time to time trying to entice them to move closer.
all three of my guys at least hand feed. two of them have no fear in crawling up the arm

 

[shaunaroxanne]

Welcome! They sometimes have a reputation for being aggressive, but they can turn around with lots of food and patience. Move slowly, let him associate you with food, and don't give up. Sometimes they are aggressive while in their cages, but fine when you have them out. You have to just keep working with him

 

[IAmCarl]

Thanks for the encouragement. I had him out once and he was fine but I will not give up. Does it hurt when they get you? Or are they more reluctant not to bite and just try and scare you?

I tried offering a cricket from my hand but he wasn't ready and just looked at it. I fed him from a Tupperware while I was holding it and no issues the first time but he was reluctant the next. I've heard they are moody at times so I guess I'll need some patience.

 

[shaunaroxanne]

I have never been bitten by an adult, only babies. But I have seen photos where they have drawn blood. You learn their body language, and they give you plenty of warning before biting. Some people wear gloves to handle theirs. I only have one male who tries to bite sometimes, but he used to be REALLY mean. I worked with him a lot, now he is just cage-aggresive if I come for him. However, if I open the cage and let him come to me to get out, he's a sweetheart. So I guess it's a control thing for him