Definition & Meaning of "Syrian hamster"

What is a "Syrian hamster"?

The Syrian hamster, also known as the golden hamster, is a small rodent native to the Middle East. It has a round body with short limbs, small ears, and large, dark eyes. Its fur can come in various colors, including golden, cream, cinnamon, and gray. Syrian hamsters are known for their solitary nature, and they are typically active during the night. They are adept at burrowing and will create complex underground tunnels in their habitat. Syrian hamsters also have distinctive cheek pouches on either side of their face that they use to store food, allowing them to transport and hoard food for later consumption. As pets, Syrian hamsters are popular due to their cute appearance and relatively low maintenance care requirements.