Since hamsters are prey animals—meaning they’re hunted as food in the wild—it’s a hamster’s instinct to be hyper-vigilant. These defense mechanisms can also be prominent in domestic hamsters and may manifest as lingering in one corner. Such behavior may concern you if you’re unsure why your hamster does it.
Your hamster is staying in one corner, likely because it feels uneasy in its enclosure. Maybe your hamster is afraid or is still trying to adjust to its environment. If your hamster continues to stay in one corner for longer, it might indicate that your hamster is ill or injured.
It’s essential to note that a hamster’s defensive and sometimes fearful behavior is nothing out of the ordinary if you first bring it home. Keep reading as I’ll discuss various topics related to this question, including what you can do to keep your hamster comfortable and happy!