#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

The European hamster, also known as the common hamster, is a fascinating rodent native to parts of Europe and Asia. It is much larger than its smaller hamster relatives, growing up to 35 cm in length, and is easily recognized by its striking fur patterns of black, white, and brown. These solitary, nocturnal creatures are skilled burrowers, building underground homes where they hoard grains and legumes to survive harsh winters. Sadly, the European hamster is now endangered in some regions due to