Hamster

Hamster Ruso

Pearl Winter White Russian Dwarf Hamster - Front

Roborofskiohamster

Campbells dwarf

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Hamster clades

Hamsters are small rodents belonging to the subfamily Cricetinae, which contains 19 species classified in seven genera. They have become established as popular small house pets and are also used in scientific research. The best-known species of hamster is the Syrian Hamster (Mesocricetus auratus), also known as the golden hamster, which is the type most commonly kept as pets. Other hamster species commonly kept as pets are the Campbell's Dwarf Hamster (Phodopus campbelli), the Winter White Russian Dwarf Hamster (Phodopus sungorus), the Roborovski Hamster (Phodopus roborovskii), and the Chinese Hamster (Cricetulus griseus).

Characteristics

Hamsters are known for their distinctive pouches, which extend to their shoulders, allowing them to transport food and bedding materials. They are primarily nocturnal, spending most of the day sleeping and becoming active at dusk to forage for food. Hamsters typically have stout bodies with short tails, short legs, and wide feet. Their fur can vary in color from white, grey, brown, black, yellow, red, or a mix, depending on the species.

Habitat and Distribution

Wild hamsters inhabit arid areas, including steppes, gardens, and farmlands. Their natural distribution includes parts of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. They are adept at digging burrows, which they use for sleeping, rearing their young, and storing food.

Diet

Hamsters are omnivores; their diet in the wild consists of seeds, grains, nuts, fruits, vegetables, and occasionally insects and other small animals. Pet hamsters are often fed a similar diet, supplemented with commercial hamster food pellets to ensure they receive all necessary nutrients.

Behavior and Social Structure

Hamsters are solitary animals and can be aggressive towards other hamsters. They communicate through body language, scent, and vocalizations. When threatened, they may bite. In captivity, it is essential to house hamsters separately to prevent fighting.

Reproduction

Hamsters reach sexual maturity quickly and can breed prolifically, with gestation periods lasting around 16 to 22 days, depending on the species. They can produce several litters a year, each containing up to 12 young, although litter sizes vary.

As Pets

Hamsters are popular pets due to their small size, ease of care, and the variety of colors and breeds. They require a suitable cage, bedding, food, and water, along with regular cleaning. Hamsters are known for their entertaining behaviors, such as running on exercise wheels and navigating through tunnels.

In Research

Hamsters have been used in scientific research, particularly in the fields of medicine, genetics, and behavioral studies. The Syrian hamster has been especially valuable in medical research due to its susceptibility to human diseases.

Conservation

While pet hamsters are widespread, some wild populations of hamsters are under threat due to habitat destruction, pollution, and farming practices. Conservation efforts are necessary to protect these populations and maintain biodiversity.