Are there different breeds of gerbils?
Are there different breeds of gerbils?
There are lots of different gerbil colours, but there are only two species of gerbils commonly kept as pets: Mongolian gerbils and fat-tailed gerbils.
What is the most common species of gerbil?
The most common breed of pet gerbil is the Mongolian gerbil, whose scientific name (meriones unguiculatus) translates to “little clawed warrior” in Latin. There are many species of gerbils, over 80 of which have been identified, and you can probably see how well this translation physically describes your gerbil.
What does a Mongolian gerbil look like?
The Mongolian gerbil or Mongolian jird (Meriones unguiculatus) is a small rodent belonging to the subfamily Gerbillinae. Their body size is typically 110–135mm (4½” to 5¼”), with a 95–120mm (3¾” to 4¾”) tail, and body weight 60–130g (2 to 4½ oz), with adult males larger than females.
What is the friendliest gerbil breed?
Mongolian gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus) are popular pets due to their friendly temperament and ease of care. They are sociable, inquisitive animals and are easy to feed and keep clean. They are also small and easy to handle. Mongolian gerbils don’t grow larger than 5 to 6 inches (not including their tail).
What is the biggest gerbil?
the great gerbil
characteristics. …of the largest is the great gerbil (Rhombomys opimus), which inhabits the deserts of Central Asia and is 15 to 20 cm (5.9 to 7.9 inches) long, with a slightly shorter, densely haired tail.
How many breeds of gerbil are there?
There are many different kinds of gerbils globally, 87 known species, and a current 14 genera of gerbil, to be exact. They are all classed in the mammal subfamily Gerbillinae, previously known as the desert rats. These small creatures are primarily native to Africa, Asia, and India.
What’s better hamster or gerbil?
Hamsters are often active during the day but are better termed crepuscular. This means that they’re most active between dawn and dusk. Hamsters aren’t quite as curious as gerbils, but both species are energetic….Hamsters vs. Gerbils as Pets.
| Gerbils | Hamsters | |
|---|---|---|
| Awake: | Diurnal (during the day) | Crepuscular (dawn to dusk) |
How long do gerbils live for?
Pachyuromys duprasi: 5 – 7 years
Great gerbil: 2 – 4 years
Gerbils/Lifespan
What is the rarest color of gerbil?
It is followed by Argente Fawn, the most common of the three, and Argente Cream, the rarest and lightest in the shade.
How much does a gerbil cost?
A gerbil costs $5-10. Its cage costs $50-60, plus $50 for a water bottle, chew toy, and exercise wheel. Each gerbil eats $50-60 of food per year, and the tank needs $50-100 of bedding. Vets bills cost $40 for a checkup, $10 for medication, and $200 for surgery.
