Hamsters and gerbils are currently popular pocket pets in many households. Taking care of these critter rodents can be a fun experience, especially if you’re a pet lover. But how exactly do you distinguish between them?
The most distinctive difference between a hamster and a gerbil is their appearance – a hamster is large and has a short tail, while a gerbil is tiny and somewhat resembles a rat. Moreover, hamsters and gerbils have other physical, behavioral, and care differences.
Distinguishing between a hamster and gerbil will help you understand their behaviors and care requirements. The rest of this article will discuss a few topics related to the differences between the two. You don’t want to miss out on anything, so read on.
The Differences Between a Hamster and a Gerbil
Although hamsters and gerbils have similarities, they also possess several distinguishable features. Body size is the most obvious difference, but knowing other variances will go a long way in easing your selection process if you’re planning to adopt one (or two).
Physical Differences
The first glance at these rodents might be confusing, but a closer look will reveal some differences. For starters, a hamster is larger and appears fuller than a gerbil. So, adult hamsters grow up to six inches (15.24 cm) long, while gerbils reach about four inches (10.16 cm).
Secondly, a hamster has a short stubby tail, approximately an inch (2.54 cm) long. Contrastingly, a gerbil has a longer tail at four inches (10.16 cm) long and loves to stand on its long hind legs. So, it’s unlikely that you’ll see a hamster jumping around, but a gerbil will do so effortlessly.
Their face structure is another distinguishing feature between a gerbil and a hamster. A hamster appears to have chubby cheeks due to its round face and short nose (snout). Moreover, its inner cheek comprises a stretchable pouch that helps them carry and store food.
On the other hand, you can easily spot a gerbil by its lean face and prolonged snout. It also lacks an internal cheek pouch. So, you won’t find a gerbil hoarding food as a hamster does.
Read How Long Should a Hamster Be in a Ball?
Behavioral Differences
A pet’s behavior is an essential quality to consider before adopting it. Now, hamsters and gerbils have some behavioral variances that you can get used to with time. But you won’t enjoy keeping them if you can’t cope with their personalities.
Intelligent is a word that most gerbil owners use to describe them. These pet rodents are clever, curious, and always want to associate with people. So, the critters will love it when you hold or carry them gently.
Gerbils have lots of energy, which keeps them lively in any activity-filled environment. Moreover, these active rodents are diurnal (active during the day). Therefore, they’re more likely to keep you on your toes when they climb and play all day.
The pocket pets are also fond of burrowing and shredding materials into pieces in their nests.
Unlike gerbils, hamsters are primarily nocturnal (active at night). Therefore, they’ll spend the night exploring and burrowing and then prepare their nests for sleep at dusk. And, they’ll appear grumpy if you accidentally startle them during the day.
However, you may find hamsters operating early, before sunrise, or at dawn. So, these are the best times to interact with them by holding them for a short while. Moreover, they can at times recognize your voice and try to respond.
Check out, How To Keep a Hamster Warm
Diet and Lifespan
Both hamsters and gerbils are omnivores. Therefore, they