Hamsters are small rodents with the following main characteristics:
1. Appearance Characteristics
Body Size: Hamsters are small in size. Their body length usually ranges from 5 to 18 centimeters, and their weight is between 30 and 150 grams. They have a short and stout body, and their tails are short and covered with fur.
Fur Color: Their fur colors are diverse, including black, brown, gray, white, yellow, or red. Some varieties also have spots or stripes.
Cheek Pouches: Hamsters have cheek pouches on both sides of their faces, which are used for temporarily storing or carrying food. This is one of their remarkable features.
2. Living Habits
Nocturnal: Hamsters are mainly active at night. They sleep during the day and are lively at night.
Burrowing: They like to dig holes to hide food. They have a strong sense of territory and usually live alone.
Diet: They are omnivorous, mainly feeding on seeds, nuts, vegetables, and fruits. Occasionally, they also eat small insects.
3. Reproduction and Lifespan
Reproductive Ability: Hamsters have a strong reproductive ability. They can give birth to 2-3 litters per year, with each litter having 5-12 offspring.
Lifespan: Their average lifespan is 2-3 years. Some varieties, such as the Syrian hamster, can live up to 4 years.
4. Behavioral Characteristics
Tameness: Most hamsters are gentle towards humans. However, some varieties, like the Campbell dwarf hamster, may bite when they feel threatened.
Activity Level: Hamsters are agile in movement and love to exercise. It is necessary to provide them with toys such as running wheels and tunnels to meet their activity needs.
5. Variety Diversity
Dwarf Hamsters: For example, the Roborovski dwarf hamster is the smallest in size, only 4-5 centimeters long, and has a lively personality.
Syrian Hamsters: They are relatively large, with a body length of 12-22 centimeters. Their fur colors are mostly golden or brown, and they are suitable as pets.
These characteristics make hamsters popular pets, but it also requires owners to understand their habits and provide them with a suitable living environment.