Where does the hamster live in the wild and what are the varieties of this funny animal? You may need to know the answers to these questions if your children are asked to plant a furry animal at home. Knowing how many years hamsters live and what kind of care they need, you can make the best decision as to whether you need such a pet. First, let's look at the features of the species.
Where does the hamster live?
In the mid-nineteenth century, a small fluffy animal was caught in the Syrian desert. Zoologist Waterhouse had never seen such a creature before. Being brought to Europe, the animals began to breed in captivity. They were called Syrian Golden Hamsters. It turned out that they can become one of the most unpretentious pets. Where does the Syrian hamster live in nature? Its habitat is the foothills, meadows and steppes of the Balkans, Turkey and Iran.
Another variety of these animals - Dzungarian hamsters - lives in Central Asia and Southern Siberia. They adapt well to the most diverse climate features. The mouse-shaped hamster lives in the mountains, he prefers semi-desert areas with stony placers. It is very small. Often confused with a field mouse. In the voids among the stones where the hamster lives, he makes holes and can perfectly climb mounds and cracks. Winter is not an easy test for these small animals, they are prepared for it in advance. By autumn, the weight of the hamster increases. Moreover, if winter promises to be harsh, more fat appears around the neck and in front of the body. This not only protects the animal from the cold, but also is a source of food in the cold months. In addition to subcutaneous reserves, the hamster also makes blanks in its underground pantry.
Some species of these animals can store up to ten kilograms of seeds and cereals in their minks. After the first frosts come, small animals close the entrance to their home from the inside. But they do not fall into hibernation, but continue to lead a less active lifestyle. Sometimes they come to the surface. Hamsters living in the northern regions change color for the winter - their fur coat turns white to provide good camouflage in the snow.
Should I have a furry animal at home?
Hamsters live (for years, during which they stay with you, enough to become attached to them) not for long - one and a half or two years. Therefore, immediately think about the stress that your family members (especially children) will experience when the pet dies. If you are ready to survive this shock in the future, and also can devote some time daily to caring for the animal, then feel free to get a hamster. A tiny rodent requires a very small space. It’s easy to set up a cage - a hamster loves to climb tunnels and stones. It will have to be cleaned regularly, as well as daily water changes and to fill the feeder. These manipulations can be performed even by children of eight to nine years old. Hamsters also have negative traits. The constant need to nibble something can pose a threat to your apartment. However, if you closely monitor the rodent, he will not be able to cause significant harm.
