Hi! There are some fish owners who say they can pet their red devil and oscars. How do you condition your fish for this? Thanks!
Taming red devils and oscars
- Thread starter Viper X
- Start date
Yeah, a lot of it depends on the individual personality of the fish. Some of my fish are very nervous around me, others very bold. But Sandman is right, a good place to start is by handfeeding treats like krill or bloodworms. If your fish gets close to your hand, keep your movements slow so as not to scare them.
duke33;2368631; said:Feed them by hand...don't spook them. They will get to know you in time. My fish shy away from people that are'nt bald!
Yeah, my fish are scared of anyone who's not me, and I don't know anyone who looks like me, so they're all mine. They're even scared of me in a hat, but regular me is their best friend.
Hand feed, slowly. I'd start with getting them to feed in one spot, without hand feeding. Then, after they're comfortable, hold the food just in the water (but not your hand). Gradually, get your hand further and further in. It may take some time. Also, don't be surprised if the devil decides to nip you.
Thanks for the advice. I have a 4" oscar and a 4" red devil, very nice looking fishes. I can hand feed my oscar, but he snatches the food from my hand and then automatically draws back. Guess it may really take time. I love these creatures!