Cleaning gecko cage help?

Question

I have a leopard gecko that I've had for about two months now. This is my first time keeping one of these and am doing a good job at it ( gecko seems healthy, active and curious). It has finally gotten used to me and my son because he shoots out of hiding to see us whenever one of us enters the room. I put my hands in everyday and it comes to my hand BUT, i'm afraid it will bite because as soon as its maybe an inch or two from my hand the gecko stands still and wiggles the tip of its tail much like it does when it eats the crickets. Its time to clean the cage and I'm scared to take it out what other aproach should I take or is that normal gecko behavior I shouldn't be afraid of?

Answer 1

Your gecko associates your hand with food, If you bravely and slowly stick your hand in there and hold it low to the ground the gecko should not bite, this will allow your gecko to see your hand better and be able to inspect it so it will know your hand is not food. encourage the gecko onto your hand then remove it from the tank, you can get someone to handle it whilst you clean the tank out, eventually with regular handling, your gecko will learn the difference between your hand and food. If the gecko were to bite, it will not hurt so don't worry! :)

Answer 2

if he wanted to eat your fingers i think he would've tried a taste by now, haha.

i wouldn't be afraid, leos are generally very docile towards handling, especially if they are used to you.

pick him up from the sides from behind him, this way he won't have a chance to lash at your fingers from the front.

i really doubt he would try to nip you, unless you freaked him out, and if he does, it won't hurt. it will be startling more than anything, and then it will be out of the way.

to ensure good tameness with your leo, handle him daily so he knows you aren't food!

good luck with your leo:D

Answer 3

if you consider the type of gecko, if you have the tokey gecko, you might be needing tough gloves for these guys, but smaller ones are harmless as they look. but most gecko don't bite.

Answer 4

If you want to move him without touching him, just get a large cup or another container and usher him in.

You can then leave him in this while you clean the cage etc, this is what I do with my tarantulas and scorpions. =)