Crestie Question

[Kristy]

I am getting my first crestie today (YAY) and I have read conflicting info over and over on their adjustment period. I have read that they need 2 weeks and I have read that they need 1 week to adjust before handling. So which one is it? I don't want to stress the little guy out. Thanks,
Kristy

[tigerlily]

How old it the little guy? I'd image that a week is more than adequate for an adult. I don't handle my little ones too often, because they stress out very easily. (don't want them to drop their tail)

[Kristy]

I believe he's 5 weeks old. Well He or She, too soon to tell.
We are going out to spokane to check him out. Maybe since he is so young I will play it safe and give him two weeks.

[tigerlily]

I'd err on the side of caution with one that young. I'd also start with very short handling sessions. Make sure you handle it in a room without too many hiding places, and be prepared for it to fling itself in any direction no matter the height.

[Kristy]

I figured it would be pretty jumpy. I will give him plenty of adjusting time before even considering handling. His enclosure has a lot of foliage and vines so I think he will be pretty comfortable in there.

[tigerlily]

Can't wait to see some pics. I love cresties.

[Kristy]

I will be sure and post them.. Thanks for reminding too, I have to charge the camera battery.

[mlededee]

one week is fine but do start with short 5 minute handling sessions once per day or every other day. you can work up to 10-15 minute sessions once or twice per day.

i really only handle hatchlings during feeding and cleaning time unless they need help with a stuck shed or something like that. once they are 3 months old or so they are easier to handle and tend to be much calmer.

good luck and get lots of photos!

[Kristy]

Thanks, I have one more question. I am just refreshing my memory of everything. I have researched for months but I want to make sure I am 100% clear. A lot of caresheets say that they need a humide hide. I have a small hide at the bottom of the tank but it isn't a humid hide. I don't have any troubles with humidity in the little tank at all One mist in the evening and its good all the next day. Should I add one of those too?

I have had my tank setup for days now and everything is stable temps and humidity wise. So I wasn't sure about the humid hide.

[mlededee]

you don't need a humid hide unless your gecko is having trouble shedding. i don't use them at all, but i do live in georgia where it is fairly humid. you may find that you need to use one in the winter if it is dry where you are. just play it by ear and see.