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[elly]

My little one does the same thing.* He goes crazy in the tank, but when he comes out he's calm. Mostly.
I think the cage frenzy might have to do with frustrated hunting instincts. Once they get out they have more area to survey and look for bugs so they're calmer and more willing to sit there and scan the area. That's my idea anyway. edit: Also it may have something to do with the area outside the cage being less familiar.

*My big frog on the other hand is only just beginning to be willing to leave his tank.