My new hamster doesn't allow me to pet him. ):

[n4tive]

Hello, guys! I'm new here, and a new Syrian hamster owner as well.

I've bought my little baby (I think. He's quite small, about 4 inches? And his eyes are closed most of the time, especially when he eats in his bowl) Syrian hamster (male) yesterday.

I've held him in the pet shop. He climb my arm and was quite active. His eyes, ears, nose, mouth, tail and fur are good, so I guess he's healthy.

So anyway, today's his second day with me and so far I've not been able to pet him. >< When I try, he flinches and freezes a bit. Maybe I shouldn't touch him yet? Or maybe I shouldn't pet him from the back? He doesn't get scared when I talk in front of the cage.

I tried searching this topic up, but most that come out are about "taming". My baby doesn't bite, but I think he's just scared. Does this count as "taming"?

How can I make him feel comfortable around me and allow me to pet and pick him up?

Oh and he can already take food from my fingers. But I can't pet him or carry him (he runs away when I try to carry him).

Also, his first night in a new home, he got really, really active and started climbing the bars and chewing the bars. Is this normal?

I'm still thinking of a name, though. Any suggestions?

Thanks for all your help! ^^