Aggression?

[Chevalrose]

I've heard that LGs are generally easy going. Do they become aggressive/bite? What usually sets them off? If/when they bite, do they latch or just make contact?

(Side note: Thanks to every one so far who has answered all my questions...I like to get ALL information before I chose a pet!)

 

[MichaelJ]

Overall they are very easy going and are handled well. I don't think they get agitated; rather they protect themselves against potential threats. Some leos are a little more sensitive than others. I think sudden movement is the one thing that creates a reaction from a leo.

For example, if you suddenly stick your hand in a leo's enclosure, and he becomes frightened, you may see that he strikes at your hand (they don't latch on - feels like a pinch).

To avoid this behavior and promote your leo's confidence: use very slow, fluid movements when you're handling, feeding, or cleaning his enclosure. This will make him feel secure and comfortable. There are many threads on this forum regarding proper handling/ introduction techniques.

A leo may intentionally bite is if he mistakes your finger for food, so use caution if you're using hand-feeding techniques. We've handled geckos for over 8 years and have only been bitten once.

Hope that helps!

 

[ILoveGeckos14]

The bites we have gotten have been when trying to medicate the gecko(high stress) or when holding males back to back during breeding season. Other than that its usually the little hatchlings that are bitey and it's really cute/hilarious! Haha

 

[spykerherps]

Some geckos that have not been handled much when young can be spazzy I would not say aggressive. often times they will become accustom to there keepers being the source of food and that can be mistaken as aggression when they are hungry. other then that they are pretty chill animals. they are more likely to bite and hold on if they are being messed with if its food they are after they usually immediately let go when they realize your finger is not there food.