Eversmann's Hamster

Overview

The Eversmann's Hamster (Allocricetulus eversmanni) is a rodent in the hamster family. Named after Russian naturalist Eduard Eversmann and closely related to the Mongolian hamster. Body 10–15 cm. Inhabits steppes, semi-deserts and agricultural plains of Kazakhstan and southern Russia. Grayish-yellow fur. Constructs extensive burrow systems and is considered an agricultural pest in parts of Kazakhstan owing to grain raiding.

Scientific Name & Origin

Scientifically known as Allocricetulus eversmanni, the Eversmann's Hamster belongs to the genus Allocricetulus. It is a wild species not normally kept as a pet. Its native range covers Kazakhstan, S Russia (Urals & lower Volga), W Siberia.

Appearance & Size

Body 10–15 cm. Hamsters are distinguished by expandable cheek pouches used to carry food and nesting material, and by continuously growing incisors. Coat colouration and markings vary between species and individuals.

Behavior & Temperament

As with most hamsters, adults can be territorial toward one another and introductions should be supervised. Hamsters are generally crepuscular, most active at dawn and dusk, and spend much of the day resting in a burrow or nest. A strong burrowing instinct means it benefits from deep substrate, and it hoards food in its cheek pouches or a dedicated store.

Habitat & Ecology

In the wild this species inhabits Kazakhstan, S Russia (Urals & lower Volga), W Siberia. It lives in a burrow system that provides shelter from predators and temperature extremes and is used to store food. Like other hamsters it is primarily a seed and plant eater, supplemented by insects and other small invertebrates. As a prey species it is an important part of the food chain for owls, foxes, mustelids and snakes.

Health & Lifespan

Wild hamsters generally have short lives, often only one to three years, due to predation and harsh environmental conditions. In the wild, survival is shaped by predation, food availability, climate and disease. Continuous tooth growth and seasonal fattening or torpor are important aspects of their physiology.

Conservation Status

IUCN Red List status: Least Concern. It is currently assessed as Least Concern by the IUCN, thoughlike all wildlife it depends on the preservation of its native habitat. The species is native to Kazakhstan, S Russia (Urals & lower Volga), W Siberia.