The living environments of hamsters differ significantly between wild and domesticated settings. Here’s a breakdown of their specific distributions and habitat characteristics:
1. Habitats of Wild Hamsters
Geographical Distribution
They are primarily found across Eurasia, including regions north of China’s Yangtze River, Mongolia, Central Asia, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East.
Within China, they are commonly seen on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, the North China Plain, and agricultural areas in the Northeast, spanning elevations from 500 to 3,900 meters.
Typical Habitats
They prefer semi-arid zones such as grasslands, shrublands, river valleys, and meadows surrounding farmlands.
Their burrows can be 2-3 meters deep, featuring separate storage chambers, nursery areas, and latrines. These burrows serve as shelter from extreme temperatures, helping them stay cool in heat and warm in cold, especially when day-night temperature differences are large.
2. Living Requirements of Domesticated Hamsters
Basic Environmental Setup
A spacious enclosure is necessary (such as acrylic cages or tunnel mazes); wire cages should be avoided to prevent scratches.
The temperature should be kept between 18-24°C, with humidity levels at 30%-50%. Avoid direct sunlight or strong drafts.
Adapting to Behavioral Habits
A solitary living space is a must—housing multiple hamsters together often leads to fights.
Provide exercise wheels, tunnels, and hiding spots to meet their need for nocturnal activity.
3. Special Considerations
Wild hamsters are nocturnal and solitary, and even domesticated ones still require a dark, quiet environment.
In winter, thicken bedding (like wood shavings) to prevent them from entering a state of pseudohibernation due to low temperatures.