How can one resist cute creatures like hamsters? What should you know about these rodents?
Hamsters are small rodents that usually become favorites in domestic settings. They stand out among other rodents with their short tails, small paws, and ears. These animals come in various colors, including black, gray, brown, white, yellow, red, and their combinations.
What are the sizes of these rodents?
According to the Federation of Animal Protection Universities, there are 24 species of hamsters, and their sizes vary.
The European breed can reach up to 32 centimeters in length, making it one of the largest varieties, as noted in the journal Biomarkers in Toxicology.
The dwarf hamster lives up to its name, growing only from 5.5 to 10.5 cm in length, according to AZ Animals. The most common Syrian domestic hamster, also known as the teddy bear hamster or golden hamster, typically reaches a length of 15 to 24 cm.
Where do hamsters live?
The first hamsters were found in Syria, but they are also found in Greece, Romania, Belgium, and northern China. In the wild, they prefer warm and dry places, such as steppes, sandy dunes, and the edges of deserts. According to the Louisiana Veterinary Medical Association, hamsters were brought to the U.S. in 1936 from Syria and became one of the first domesticated species.
Habits and Behavior
As reported by the ASPCA, hamsters are nocturnal and prefer to sleep during the day. In the wild, they create burrows, which are a system of tunnels, for shelter and breeding. Hamsters also store food in their burrows, which helps them avoid the heat.
Some hamsters can live in groups, while others prefer solitude. For example, the Syrian hamster cannot coexist with other hamsters and may show aggression. In contrast, dwarf hamsters are sociable and prefer company.
In the wild, hamsters hibernate during the cold season, periodically waking up to eat. If food supplies run low, they may remain in hibernation until their stores are replenished.
What do hamsters eat?
According to the Singapore Hamster Society, these mammals prefer seeds, grains, nuts, corn, fruits, and vegetables. Wild hamsters may also eat insects, frogs, lizards, and other small animals. The Canadian Federation of Humane Societies states that a domestic hamster's diet should include at least 16% protein and 5% fat.
The name "hamster" comes from the German word "hamstern," which means "to hoard." This name reflects the habit of hamsters filling their cheek pouches with food. They also store supplies and regularly replenish them. Domestic hamsters often hide food under the bedding in their cage.
Reproduction
Male and female hamsters mate quickly. If two hamsters of the opposite sex are placed in the same cage, the female can become pregnant in no time. According to the Young People's Trust for the Environment (YPTE), the gestation period is between 15 to 20 days.
After birth, the pups remain blind for the first two weeks, and after 3-4 weeks, the female begins to wean them. As reported by the journal Scientific Reports, female European hamsters typically have two to three litters per year. Hamsters generally live from one to two years, but can live up to three years in captivity.
Why are some species endangered?
The golden hamster is critically endangered and is listed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. This species is found in Syria, where agriculture and human activity negatively impact its natural habitat.
According to the journal Ecology and Evolution, the European hamster is also endangered. The primary threat to this species is habitat change due to agricultural activities and urbanization. When land is cleared for farming, large habitats are fragmented into smaller patches, making survival difficult.
Conservation measures for hamster populations include cultivating plants that provide them with food. As reported by the journal Mammalian Biology, sometimes hamsters bred in captivity are released into the wild to increase their numbers.
Interesting Facts
Hamsters are considered ideal pets due to their gentleness and ease of care. However, they can show aggression and bite, especially if awakened. According to Pets Radar, this often occurs when a hamster is disturbed during sleep.
Hamsters have poor eyesight, and their scent glands on their backs produce a distinctive odor. To navigate, they leave scents by rubbing their backs against objects. When a hamster needs to find its way home, it uses this scent as a guide.
According to the British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA), the female always protects her young. If she senses danger to them, she immediately takes them in her mouth and carries them to a safe place.
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