Hamsters are rodents. They have become established as popular small
pets. The best-known species of hamster is the golden or Syrian hamster,
which is the type most commonly kept as pets. Other hamster species
commonly kept as pets are the three species of
dwarf hamster, Campbell's dwarf hamster,
the winter white dwarf hamster and the Roborovski hamster.
Hamsters are more crepuscular than nocturnal and, in the wild, remain
underground during the day to avoid being caught by predators. They feed
primarily on seeds, fruits, and vegetation, and will occasionally eat
burrowing insects. Physically, they are stout-bodied with distinguishing
features that include elongated cheek pouches extending to their
shoulders, which they use to carry food back to their burrows, as well
as a short tail and fur-covered feet.