History of the Hamster

Hamsters have a unique and rich history. The first record of the hamster in the modern era was in 1797 by Alexander Russel. In his excursions into Syria, he was able to document several of these rodents living in the wild. These hamsters would hunt in packs for small insects and other creatures. Since then, hamsters have grown from a scientific curiosity in Europe to a household pet worldwide. Hamsters are now available in many local pet stores, and while some are still used as a science project, the majority of these furry creatures live lives of luxury in the laps of small children.

The word hamster came from the German word hamstern, which means “to hoard.” Indeed, hamsters have the unique ability to store massive amounts of food in their voluminous cheeks, and some have been found to store a mass of food heavier than their own body weight. Watching a hamster literally stuff its cheeks is a rewarding and entertaining experience for the prospective pet-owner.

As omnivores, hamsters will eat almost every type of food imaginable. Their recommended diet is usually found packaged on store shelves, though the occasional cracker couldn’t hurt. Because modern hamsters are short-sighted, hamsters do not frighten as other, more observant animals will. They are more likely to tolerate being handled and feel comfortable falling asleep even while being held.

The one drawback to these cute and cuddly creatures is that, like all rodents, they have sharp incisors. If they do decide to nip the hand that feeds them, it could be painful. However, when the right measures have been taken, these teeth can be worn down to harmless nubs and the danger will have abated.

Overall, hamsters are wonderful creatures that make the perfect pets. They don’t become aggressive when handled and as long as the handler doesn’t throw them against the wall, they will remain that way. They are cute, cuddly, and very enjoyable. They have changed much from the deserts of Syria, but they still remain one of the most fascinating creatures on the planet. You’ve just gotta love the hamster.