How long does it to tame a baby iguana?

Question

New baby iguana and does not like to be touched.

Answer 1

It depends. In my experience, iguanas are extremely individual. I've had one that bit like crazy, but fell asleep when you rubbed its ears. I also had one that hated to be picked up, but never once even opened its mouth at someone.

But it's going to be a while if you're looking to fully socialize any animal. Think about how long it took people to get wolves to turn into dogs.

Okay, maybe not that long.

Take it one step at a time. Remember that, since it's a baby, everything is still new, big, and scary. Don't try to rush the little guy into anything right away. Take tiny steps, like placing your hand in its tank for several minutes, then remove it. Let it get use to the sight of your hand. After that, you can attempt to pick it up. Don't chase the lizard around the tank with your hand, that's horrifying for a little guy. Start out handling him for several minutes, then extend the time you hold him. Eventually, he should become comfortable with you and, hopefully, people holding him.

The whole process could take a month, or it could take years. Just depends on your lizard's personality. Good luck!

Answer 2

Some Iguanas tolerate handling more than others. Some never learn to "enjoy" handling. Patience, gentleness, and daily short handling sessions are needed to accustom him to you. Be aware that even the calmest of Igs can become quite aggressive during breedings season. Always use caution when approaching and handling a lizard as large and as capable of inflicting injury like an Iguana can.

Answer 3

It takes quite some time actually. You do need to take it one step at a time. Get him used to your hands first before you go chasing him around the habitat to catch him. He first needs to know that the big scary hands are not going to eat him.
Once he trusts your hands; you can reach in and try to grab him. This could take up to a year or more to gain his full trust. But handling him every day helps. Handle him as often as possible. That is the only way to get him used to you.
Oh, and you will get bit, scratched and tail whipped in the process; this is perfectly normal. Make sure you keep his nails trimmed, Otherwise you will get scars on your arms... and people will constantly ask you "how many cats do you have?" lol.
Good Luck!

Answer 4

You need to spend quality time with it. You can get a towel and pick him up and just pet him allot until he gets used to you.