The Mongolian gerbil or Mongolian jird (Meriones unguiculatus) is a rodent belonging to the subfamily Gerbillinae. [3] . Their body size is typically 110–135 mm (4⁄4 – 5⁄4 in), with a 95–120 mm (3⁄4 – 4⁄4 in) tail, and body weight 60–130 g (2– …

These little rodents have furry bodies with long, fur-covered tails. Naturally, their fur is sandy brown in color with a cream-colored underside. However, people have bred numerous different colors in captivity, including all white, orange, gold, silver, and more. They measure between 8 and 10 inches in length, including their tails.

Gerbils are popular pets because they tend to be easy to care for and are clean with minimal odor, but they do have some special requirements to keep them happy and healthy. Due to their social nature, gerbils need to live in a pair or group. The lifespan for a gerbil is typically 3-4 years.

gerbil, (subfamily Gerbillinae), any of more than 110 species of African, Indian, and Asian rodents, including sand rats and jirds, all of which are adapted to arid habitats. One Mongolian species (Meriones unguiculatus) is a gentle and hardy animal that has become a popular pet.

May 27, 2024 · Gerbils were named after jerboas, which are also rodents. Jerboas look like gerbils but are not closely related to them. Their ability to jump. Some gerbils can jump as far as 11.5 feet. Three to four weeks if the female is not nursing, longer if she is.

Mar 27, 2025 · There are many different kinds of gerbils globally—87 known species and a current 14 genera of gerbil, to be exact. They are all classed in the mammal subfamily Gerbillinae, previously known as the desert rats. These small creatures are primarily native to …

Gerbillinae is one of the subfamilies of the rodent family Muridae and includes the gerbils, jirds, and sand rats. Once known as desert rats, the subfamily includes about 110 species of African, Indian, and Asian rodents, including sand rats and jirds, all of which are adapted to arid habitats.

Jun 6, 2024 · 3—Gerbil Housing Options. Gerbils, like most rodents, are chewers. You don't want to house your gerbils in a cage made of wood. Wire cages don't work well either, because gerbils tend to dig, and the metal could cause an injury.

Gerbils are highly social, needing company for communal activities like digging and playing. They communicate using vocalizations, body language, and scent marking, and their keen sense of smell and hearing plays vital roles in their social interactions.

Taking care of a gerbil is a simple, fun job the whole family will love getting involved in. Gerbils are small animals and are relatively low maintenance. But if it’s your first time looking after a gerbil you might wonder what you should do. In this article, we’ve listed all of the best care instructions for adult and baby gerbils. Check it out!