How soon to handle and tame new Iguana

[kazer]

I asked this question on another site, and I mixed opinions.
Anywhere from 1 week to 4 weeks.
So, I thought I would see what you all thought.
How soon should I attempt to start hand taming my Ig?

Thanks in advance for any replies

[Dragon]

did you research before you got it? you should already know. How big will it get, and what size enclosure will you be keeping it in in 2 years time?

[kazer]

I didn't know there would be a test
And yes, I did research. ALOT
Now, you honestly can't tell me you have not run into conflicting information before.

Male will reach approx: 4 to 6 feet (with proper diet, housing, etc.)
Female will reach approx: 4 to 5 feet (possibly 6)
I am currently constructing a 6H x 5W x 4D
Personally, I thought 2 weeks, but now, I am hearing anywhere from 1 to 4 weeks.

[NicoleRussell]

The first year will be hard as it grows from hatchling size. You should put off handling as long as possible in that time....and go with how he feels.
For instance---
try not to touch him until he eats out of your hand. Then do not lift him until he allows you to pet him without running. Then as you lift him and pet him---do not remove him until he allows you to do so without fleeing as you move him towards the exit.
All this can take time and can be accomplished as the animal begins to trust you and puts on some size. Use a soft voice and say his name often.
Good luck and let us know how you make out

[kazer]

Thank you Nicole,
He did take a piece of Collard Green out of my hand 4 days after I got him!
But he still seems to flee when I reach for him to pet his neck with one finger.

[NicoleRussell]

try some safe flowers---or some sweet fruit. My rhino likes to sit on my head and eat stuff...she feels taller then me and somehow safer

[kazer]

do you think the fact that he feels taller , in his mind, establishes dominance?

[Karnis]

From a fairly tall persons point of view I would say that standing above others is a slight form of dominance

[NicoleRussell]

LOL Karnis
Well in group aboreal lizard cages usually the highest basking spot is awarded to the alpha male--so yes. With cyclura babies they are semi aboreal as babies---then become terrestrial as adults. Green iguanas as you know are aboreal always so a higher point in a cage would make them feel safer then something lower then your head.

	Iguana Iguana

[kazer]

safer or more dominant

or a little of both?