New PetWhy does my new reptile duck her head and pull away when I pet her?
While rescue pets can have a variety of reasons that they show behaviors such as fear, shyness, etc, I would also consider that Thelma is a reptile. While many, like bearded dragons, geckos, and even some snakes, can grow accustomed to being "pet", instinctively, their first reaction will usually be to avoid being touched. We can't forget that these animals, in the wild, if they allowed themselves to be handled, would likely not meet a very good end.
But keep up with the bonding. It may take longer than you like, but even reptiles can grow to love affection! I had a ball python which loves to come out and wrap herself around my arm and hand for hours.
Updated on September 24th, 2025