How to handle a hyper crested gecko that won't let me pick him up?

If he isn't struggling or trying to escape, he's probably okay with being held. Don't hold him for too long initially. Gradually increase the handling time to acclimate him. Even though he doesn't struggle, it may still be stressful, so he'll return to a safe place when returned to the enclosure. As he adjusts to his new surroundings, he may begin to explore. A "best guess" on age would be 12 to 16 weeks. Reptiles have different growth rates depending on diet, availability of food and environmental factors.

I suggest you refer to this article. It may help you and answer all of your questions. http://www.moonvalleyreptiles.com/crested-geckos/care/crested-gecko-handling Also, there are some good YouTube videos that people have made on this subject. You can look some of those up as well. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uX47aYkrNSg https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lB4iZI-MSWc Hope this helps. Best wishes.

You will need to gradually acclimate Peanut to handling. Begin by simply sitting by the cage for ever increasing periods of time. Move slowly and speak softly around her. She may retreat to her hide or to the far side of the cage initially. Don't worry, this us normal. When she becomes more accepting and calm, progress to placing your hand in the enclosure. Again, for ever increasing periods of time. She may once again retreat. Make no attempt to touch or hold her. Use small treats to coax her closer to you then onto your hand. Be patient and be consistent. The more you interact with her, the quicker she will become acclimated.

Hello, here is a link to care sheet for crested geckos. I suggest you read it carefully and make sure you are doing everything correct with regards to husbandry. I think this will answer most of your questions but if not, feel free to post again. ( http://www.reptilesmagazine.com/Care-Sheets/Lizards/Crested-Gecko/ ) You cannot tell their age unless you know when they were born. Short of that all you can do is guess based on size.

Check the temperature in his enclosure. Low temps can affect appetite in reptiles. Offer prey about 2 hours after the heat lamp turns on in the morning. Make sure he is well hydrated by soaking or misting him regularly. It may be a preference. If he is eating the Repashy CGD regularly, don't worry too much about him eating crickets or not.

I commend you for rescuing her. She's gorgeous! You can only do what you are doing now. Let her acclimate to you at her pace. Move slowly around her and speak softly. Continue to sit by her for longer periods of time. Use treats and food to entice her closer and closer. Don't force her to do what she doesn't want to do. This may result in a nasty bite or scratch. Be patient and be consistent. Above all, be careful.

Hello. While 75-80F is a good range for the warm end of the cage, it would be ideal to have temps from 68-75 at the cooler end so he can self regulate his temperature. If the enclosure is too small to allow such a temperature gradient, then you may find your gecko will become stressed from being either too hot or too cold, and then susceptible to infection. Look through the enclosure and over his body for signs of infection or illness. Count food items offered so you can be sure how much he eats. Also consider a red or blue bulb for night viewing. This may help you observe his nocturnal activity better. Regardless, a new pet exam by a veterinarian is always a good idea to ensure good health and proper husbandry. Good luck!