The European hamster, also called the common hamster, is a fascinating rodent native to parts of Europe and Asia. Known for its distinctive black, white, and brown fur patterns, this stocky creature can grow up to 35 cm in length, making it much larger than its smaller hamster cousins. Unlike them, the European hamster leads a solitary, nocturnal life in underground burrows. An expert hoarder, it collects grains and legumes to sustain itself through harsh winters. Sadly, this unique species is n

European hamster It is native to grassland and similar habitats in a large part of Eurasia, extending from Belgium to the Altai Mountains and Yenisey River in Russia. | World Of Animals

#DidYouKnow that the European hamster is critically endangered across its global range? They face threats from intensive agriculture, habitat loss and human persecution by often being considered a pest in gardens. With a very small population and a dwindling gene pool, conservation breeding programs have been introduced including the program at the Breeding and Reintroduction Centre for Protected Species at the Kyiv Zoo in Ukraine, supported by IFAW and the Ukrainian Nature Conservation Group. T