Hamsters are native to Syria and were primarily used for research.  In 1948, Albert Marsh, a highway engineer, introduced them as pets.  Hamsters are chunky-bodied, thick-furred, short-tailed rodents with cheek pouches.  They are secretive burrowers and hoarders. Being nocturnal creatures, they usually sleep during the day and play and explore at night.

Hamsters have no detectable body odor.  They are inexpensive to buy and outside of cage cleaning and proper food are relatively maintenance free.  Hamsters are subject to very few health problems and diseases. Since they sleep during the day, they are active at night when most people are home. A hamster can be a wonderful family member and an excellent pet.