Introduction to Gerbils

Origin of Gerbils 1.1

Gerbils originated in northeastern China and eastern Mongolia, and they were discovered by the Europeans in the late 1800's. The gerbils latin name is Meriones Unguiculatus, meaning "little clawed warrior." Gerbils were first bred in captivity in the 1930's, and gerbils were imported to the United States in the 1950's. They were first used as laboratory animals. They gained popularity in the 1960's, and by the early 1970's, they were widely kept as pets. Gerbils are 4-6 inches long with tails about the same length as the body. Some gerbils can jump as high as 18-24 inches.

Equipment

Choosing a Cage 2.1

There are three main choices when considering a cage: aquariums, wire cages, and plastic cages. The cage should be at least 2 square feet (2x1 feet) and at least 12 inches high. The cage must have a top on it or the gerbil will escape. A plastic cage is the most expensive and may be chewed on, but is very close to the natural enviroment of a gerbil. A gerbil digs a lot, so if you get a wire cage, make sure it has a deep tray. Wire floors are not recomended for gerbils.

Diet