Are Chondros Mean?
I believe the myth of the bad temperament of these animals started in some of the earlier books written that included this species. At that time everything was written about wild-caught animals. On the whole, the majority of this species tolerate handling and many appear to enjoy it. Of course, there are some exceptions. Of the hundreds I have worked with over the last 6 years, I have been bitten only two times, both times were the result of using feeding tongs that were too short. All of the animals I keep, I can easily handle. When they are in hunting mode, however, they need to be handled by being hooked first and then brought out of the cage. So as not to be confused with a feeding situation. Temperament seems to be somewhat genetic. I have no desire to keep an animal that is difficult to handle. In short, yes, they can be handled. It s certainly a good idea to keep them away from your face just as you would a common house cat. Just exercise reasonable precautions and be alert.
