how to tame a nervous gerbil

Question
hi i got some gerbils from pets at home and one is a dare devil but the other one is scared when i put my hand in and i'm trying to tame them so  how do i tame a nervous gerbil

Answer
Hi Lucy

Thanks for your question.

Some gerbils are quite jumpy - I think it is in their nature.

I find the best way to tame a gerbil or hamster is to talk to it a lot.  It doesn't take long for them to recognise a familiar voice. Then try tempting with food.  I never put my hand into a cage for them to sniff as I think that they can easily mistake it for food and accidentally nip.

Before trying to pick up the nervous gerbil, rub some of the bedding onto your hands - this way their scent will be on you.  Place a hand each side of the gerbil and quickly 'scoop' him up.  Immediately transfer him onto your clothing.  It is best to sit down with this.  Keep your hands closeby in case he tries to jump or run off, but avoid grabbing at him or picking him up by the tail.  After a minute or two, return him to his cage.  If he is really nervous you might have to return him to his cage almost as soon as you have picked him up.

If you do this daily, and each time try and increase the handling time hopefully he will come around.  When you return him to his cage put a treat in there for him, such as sunflower seeds, or a small piece of cheese.  This way he will associate you with treats.

It really is a case of persevering with him.  The more time you spend on this now the more likely you will tame him.  You may not get him to be totally tame, but it would be good if you can at least pick him up and he isn't so nervous.

I hope you get on OK with this.

Regards
Sheila