Mongolian Hamster

Overview

The Mongolian Hamster (Allocricetulus curtatus) is a rodent in the hamster family. Body 9–12 cm, weight 30–60 g. Found in steppe grasslands, semi-desert and agricultural areas at elevations up to about 2,000 m. Nocturnal, digging shallow burrows; an active food cacher that may enter torpor during severe winter conditions. Short tail, grayish-brown fur and relatively large ears; sometimes mistaken for the gray dwarf hamster.

Scientific Name & Origin

Scientifically known as Allocricetulus curtatus, the Mongolian Hamster belongs to the genus Allocricetulus. It is a wild species not normally kept as a pet. Its native range covers Mongolia & adjacent Inner Mongolia, Xinjiang (China).

Appearance & Size

Body 9–12 cm, weight 30–60 g. Short tail, grayish-brown fur and relatively large ears; sometimes mistaken for the gray dwarf hamster. 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. It is mainly nocturnal or crepuscular, being most active around dusk and at night. 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 Mongolia & adjacent Inner Mongolia, Xinjiang (China). 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 Mongolia & adjacent Inner Mongolia, Xinjiang (China).