How to Hypnotize a Lizard
We don't exactly know why this seems to make a lizard submissive to the point of being comatose, but it often works. Perhaps it's a case of a lizard "playing possum," because many predators won't eat a dead lizard. It's good to get your pet lizard used to handling in order to do health inspections, give it medical attention or move it to another cage. Whatever the reason, it's always nice to know how to calm a pet lizard.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Challenging
Instructions
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You Are Getting Very Sleepy
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1
Retrieve your lizard from his enclosure, according to your preferred method, avoiding the tail. Very small lizards like anoles need to be picked up under their shoulders. Some lizards, like bearded dragons, will automatically cling to your hand.
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2
Wait a little while for the worst of the wriggling to subside. The time it takes is different for each lizard.
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3
Gently turn the lizard over so its belly is showing. If the lizard won't cooperate, don't push the issue.
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4
Lightly stroke the lizard's belly. Keep doing so until the lizard seems to be in a hypnotic trance.
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5
Gently replace the lizard in its cage or enclosure. Check twice to see if the lid or door is firmly closed.
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6
Clean your hands throughly with soap and hot water. Take care of any scratches.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Brace yourself for a bite. The swift movement lizards make when going in for the bite is usually scarier than the actual bite.
It helps to breathe deeply and stay calm. If you are nervous, a lizard will pick up on it and wonder if there is something to be nervous about.
Please don't try this with an alligator or a crocodile, even though some television programs show people doing just that.
Don't try this technique if you don't have any experience handling pet lizards. You and the lizard could wind up getting hurt. Learn how to handle a lizard first, please.
Never pick a lizard up by the tail. The tail will come off.
Never let children under 5 years old handle a lizard. Usually, they will end up killing the poor animal.
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- Photo Credit Image of "Morris" by Kreal
