What is the difference between hamsters and gerbils?
Hamsters and gerbils are both popular small pets. Both are rodents and need to eat hard food in order to wear down their constantly growing teeth. However, hamsters and gerbils differ in appearance, sociability and housing requirements.SpeciesThere is only one species of pet gerbil, Meriones unguiculactus, according to “Gerbils.” However, there are five species of pet hamsters: Syrian, Russian dwarf, Winter White, Chinese dwarf and Roborovski.TailsGerbils have long tails covered in fur, while all species of pet hamsters have short, hairless tails.LegsGerbils have longer hind legs, which allows them to sit up like a kangaroo. Hamsters have shorter hind legs and although they can sit up, it takes a bit of effort.SociabilityThe American Gerbils Society recommends keeping at least two gerbils together. Hamsters fight if housed together, although Russian, Winter White and Roborovskis can sometimes be housed with mates or in small colonies.HousingGerbils can chew their way out of plastic ham
