Handling

From UroWiki

Stress due to handling

Uromastyx are generally an observation-only pet; while some handling is permitted, this varies greatly from creature to creature, as some have docile, curious personalities while others can be aggressive and standoffish. Generally, handling should only be done when absolutely necessary, such as major enclosure cleaning and trips to the vet. As a rule, you should try avoid handling new lizards for the first 4-6 months, as they acclimatise to their new environment; doing so will just cause additional stress.

Heat loss due to handling

Considering that the uromastyx requires an ambient (air) thermal gradient ranging from around 30'C (85'F) at the cool end and 35'C (95'F) at the hot end, as well as a basking spot that they'll optionally stay in for some period of time, which is around 55-60'C (120-130'F), it would seem to be common sense that removing them from this into a cooler environment would be counterproductive. Only if you have a secondary location with an acceptable temperature setup is it okay to remove the uromastyx from the original enclosure for extended periods of time.

Climbing onto your arm

It has been noted often that uromastyx will happily climb onto a hand or an arm which appears in their enclosure. However, rather than any show of affection (uromastyx do not show affection in the manner of cats and dogs), it is more that they are tolerating the presence of the hand or are curious about its presence. The most common explanation is that keepers occasionally hand-feed treats to their uromastyx; the lizard will be looking for treats or food. Uromastyx are generally fairly intelligent creatures, and they adapt to knowing you are the food provider - some will climb on the keeper's arms looking for it.