Yes.
Hamsters are typical nocturnal animals. They usually rest during the day and are active at night. This habit is closely related to their survival environment in the wild, which can help them avoid natural enemies and the hot weather during the day.
The Reasons for Hamsters' Nocturnality
Avoiding Natural Enemies: Hamsters in the wild have many natural enemies. It is easy for them to be discovered if they are active during the day. Therefore, they choose to be active at night to reduce the risk of being preyed upon.
Adapting to the Environment: Hamsters' vision is more acute at night, enabling them to forage better and explore their surrounding environment.
Genetic Inheritance: This habit of being active at night and resting during the day has been deeply ingrained in the genes of hamsters. Even when they become domestic pets, they still maintain this characteristic.
Characteristics of Hamsters' Nighttime Activities
Active Hours: Hamsters usually start to be active after 8 or 9 o'clock in the evening, including foraging, playing, and grooming their fur.
Sleep Pattern: Hamsters' sleep is fragmented. They take several short naps throughout the day, and the total sleep time is about 12 to 14 hours.
Sensory Advantages: Hamsters' ears and whiskers are extremely sensitive at night, which can help them sense their surrounding environment and obstacles.
Feeding Suggestions
Avoid Disturbance: Try not to disturb the hamsters' rest during the day to maintain their natural life rhythm.
Nighttime Environment: Provide a quiet nighttime activity space for hamsters, avoid direct exposure to strong light, and ensure an adequate supply of food and water.
Silent Equipment: If using equipment such as running wheels, it is recommended to choose the silent type to reduce the disturbance to humans.
In conclusion, the nocturnality of hamsters is an important characteristic for their survival and adaptation to the environment. Understanding this can help us take better care of them.