Hamster is any of several kinds of small, chunky, furry rodents that live in Asia and Europe. Most kinds of hamsters have a short tail and large cheek pouches in which they can carry a great amount of food. There are several species (kinds) of hamsters. The best-known species are the golden hamster and the common hamster.
The golden hamster, also called the Syrian hamster, has light reddish-brown fur on its back and white fur on its underside. Golden hamsters measure about 7 inches (18 centimeters) long and have a tail 1/2 inch (13 millimeters) long. The animals weigh about 4 ounces (112 grams).
The common hamster is also called the black-bellied hamster because it has black fur on its underside. It has light brown fur on its back and white spots on its face, neck, and sides. Common hamsters measure about 11 inches (28 centimeters) long and weigh up to 32 ounces (908 grams). They are trapped for their fur.
Golden and common hamsters live alone and are active mostly at night. They dig burrows that have separate compartments for nesting, food storage, and body wastes. Hamsters eat a variety of foods, including fruits, seeds, green vegetation, and some small animals.
A female golden hamster carries her young in her body for 16 days, and the common hamster carries hers for 16 to 20 days. Both species generally give birth to six or seven young. Wild females usually have two litters a year, but they may give birth as often as once a month in captivity. Newborn hamsters are completely helpless and are cared for by the mother hamster for about three weeks.
Golden hamsters are frequently used as experimental animals in scientific research. They are also popular pets because they are easy to care for.
Pet hamsters should be kept in metal cages or in glass or plastic enclosures. Wood shavings, dried grass, or some other absorbent material should line the cage floor. Hamsters may be given many kinds of food, including fruits, greens, raw vegetables, small grains, and some meat. Fresh water should be available at all times. Pet hamsters live three to four years. 
See also Guinea pig.
