General Care Discussion :: turtles want to eat my finger

[turtlelvr2000]

I have 3 1-year old RES in a 40 gallon tank. Now, I am scared to even touch them. They always claw me and want to bite me. Any way to cure this??

[CactusJohn5]

no, they are reptiles they are not cuddly pets, sorry, but they don't like to be held, and are trying to defend themselves.

[Listen97]

Not really, just keep your fingers clear. The more you handle them the more they will trust you so they do calm down a bit. Mine are large enough they can't reach my hands when I lift them anymore so they gave up trying.

[mcpree]

Mine used to bite, but whenever he opens his mouth near my finger, getting ready to bite, i'll jus tap his head. After a few days, he decided to not eat my finger anymore. However, he still bites anyone else's finger if he has the chance, just not mine.

[Linus]

They're turtles. Get used to it.

I've learned not get bit, especially because my ladies are full grown.

[darla1699]

thought frequent handling would stress the turts. havent been bitten but my turt claws, struggles and tries to bite when held. thought of poking his head but im afraid this would anger him more.

[steve]

You will eventually learn how to hold them better and avoid biting. Being held is unnatural to them, so try to do it as little as possible.

[darla1699]

ok. thanks