The Tokay is the second largest species of gecko in the world, it has colors ranging from blue to gray, with yellow or red spots. This reptile is often referred to as the "Pit Bull of the gecko world", as it has a rather aggressive and fearless attitude. Although it is known for reacting to threats with bites, its beauty and rather low price have made it a very popular pet. Training your little friend requires patience, perseverance, and a pair of thick gloves, to prevent his hands from being pinched by his vise-like jaws.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Handling the Gecko
Step 1. Earn your pet's respect and trust over several months
The Tokay gecko is known for its erratic temperament and may react aggressively if it is not comfortable with you. Take your time to bond before you pick it up; it can take several months. By granting him the best attention you make him understand that he can trust you and help him get used to your presence.
Step 2. Put on thick gloves
The bite of this reptile can be quite painful and the animal may stick to your skin for up to an hour; to avoid this unpleasant incident, you must always wear sturdy gloves when you decide to handle it.
If you are unable to wear a pair, you shouldn't touch the gecko; however, if you have to move him to clean the cage or remove objects that are inside and you don't have gloves, you should hold him still by gently pinning his head and wrapping your fingers around his neck and body. However, be aware that this is a stressful procedure for the gecko and you should only do this if absolutely necessary
Step 3. Be prepared for it to bite you
Many reptile experts advise not to handle Tokay geckos unless absolutely necessary, due to their territorial nature and ferocious bites. If you want to tame your specimen, proceed only after keeping it for several months or even a year and when both of you are ready for direct contact.
If it bites you when you handle it, you can splash a drop or two of white vinegar on its face to get it to let go, alternatively you can try a few drops of warm water. Be gentle when trying to free yourself from the bite, as you shouldn't hurt or threaten the gecko
Part 2 of 2: Establishing a Bond with the Gecko
Step 1. Gently and carefully persuade him to get out of the cage
Proceed carefully so as not to damage the pads under their paws and not to frighten them. Call him by name and bring his hand, protected by the glove and extended; if he approaches, slide your hand under his body.
Most of these reptiles run away if they are not comfortable with the idea of being picked up; consider this behavior as a signal to postpone the training session to the following days, when the gecko will be more interested in getting in touch with you
Step 2. Don't look at it directly
Your gaze might frighten him; instead look away or observe it out of the corner of your eye.
Step 3. Hold it above your head
If it feels comfortable in your hand, lift it so that the animal is over your head. Remember that your eyes might scare him; by holding it higher than yours, you allow it to get used to your hand.
The pet could break a paw or injure itself if it were to jump and fall to the floor from a considerable height; therefore sit on the ground while handling it, to prevent it from getting hurt
Step 4. Stroke it under the tail
When it feels comfortably settled in your hand, hold it above your head and use your finger to gently touch it; proceed in this way for several minutes and then carefully bring him back into the cage.
- The little reptile may get scared and run away, launching into the air and falling to the floor. Be prepared for this by having training sessions in an open space, where there are no objects or elements in which it can hide when it lands on the ground.
- It may take several encounters before the gecko feels comfortable enough to be touched, so be patient and take your time. Do several training sessions during the week and keep improving the bond until you can stroke it under the tail. you must make him understand that you are not dangerous and do not pose a threat when you invite him out of the cage.
Step 5. Bring it to trunk level and stroke its tail
If he seems comfortable when you touch him above your head, you can proceed to gradually get him used to staying at the height of your torso; keep touching him under the tail and trying to get him to walk from one back of his hands to the other.
Step 6. Pay attention if he licks them and walks on them
If he begins to calmly walk from hand to hand, it is a good sign that he is calm and intrigued when you handle him. As he runs through your hands, he may also lick you to "probe" the environment around him. If you see it behaving this way, you have managed to get the friendship of a tamed gecko.
