Gerbils Facts

A mammal belonging to the order Rodentia, gerbil is a subfamily of around 110 rodents found worldwide. The gerbils are commonly known as desert rats due to their adaptability to arid environment. Few of the gerbils exhibit a crepuscular behavior, while most of them are diurnal. In the wild, they live in groups and have a strong sense of smell that helps them in recognizing other members of their clan. They feed on grasses, grains, seeds, roots of plants available in deserts.

The average body length of gerbils ranges from 6-12 inch. However, species like Rhombomys opimus are as long as 16 inches; they weigh around 2½ oz. They have larger hind legs which help them in movement by hopping. The hind legs are characterized by a furry surface which protects them from hot and dry surfaces of deserts. Gerbils live underground and they create a network of tunnels. Families living together in chambers is also one of the features of these tunnel networks. The average body temperature of 39 °C can vary by 0.5°C. Heart rate of these rodents ranges between 260-600/minute. The gerbils life span ranges from 2-3 years.

Gerbils as Pets
They are considered to be good household pets, just like hamsters. The body of gerbils is adapted to survive arid/dry climatic conditions and their kidneys produce little amount of waste for body fluid conservation. Mongolia gerbils are commonly used in the pet industry. Thus, gerbils with their clean odor are amongst good household pets. The following points would help in understanding about how to take care of them.

• It is important to keep those gerbils together, which are familiar with each other. These creatures are known to fight violently and therefore, it would be wise to follow the advise of people from the pet store.
• Growth of teeth in gerbils takes place continuously and hence, it is important to clip them off regularly. If clipping is not carried out regularly, there are chances of the mouth roof getting injured. For proper teeth care, the gerbil should be taken to a veterinarian.
• The pellet form of food is given to gerbils.
• A metal gerbil cage and cotton bedding is recommended for housing a gerbil; the gerbils can bury themselves in cotton. Plastic materials should never be used for housing gerbils. Their habit of gnawing/chewing could pose a danger of ingesting plastic.
• Tyzzers' disease is the health problem to watch out for, in gerbils. It is an infectious disease caused by bacteria and in some cases, due to stress. Symptoms of the tyzzer's disease are lethargy, ruffled fur, poor appetite, hunched posture, diarrhea. In worst cases, the creature can die from tyzzer's disease.
• Handling the gerbils properly is important for their health as well as controlling the violent behavior. Gentle handling should keep them under control.

Fun Facts About Gerbils
These gerbils facts would reveal some interesting information about them.

• The gerbils are fond of sunflower seeds.
• A gerbil marks his territory by rubbing stomach on nearby the objects.
• A nest box is needed by gerbils, so that they get a feel of security.
• An interesting form of gerbil behavior is thumping. When they feel excited or are stressed, they generally pound their hind legs on ground.
• Thumping in young gerbils can be seen, even if they are not stressed.

The gerbils are amongst the most preferred pets in the world. Their docile nature and other features help the owners to take care of the gerbils easily.