Mine was exactly how you and everyone else described. What I did was hold him and let him come out on his own don't forcefully unravel him. Sometimes mine wouldn't unravel when i held him, and I just placed him in my lap or on my dresser and just watched him and he would start to explore. Than I would slowly pick him up and at that point he only got scared if I put my hand next to his face or made fast movements. Also wrapping 3 sides of the tank with card board or dark construction paper makes them feel more secure.....if you haven't already done this.