Mongolian Gerbil
Meriones unguiculatus
Conservation Status
Least ConcernMammalia · Rodentia · Muridae
About
The Mongolian gerbil, also referred to as the Mongolian jird, is a rodent belonging to the subfamily Gerbillinae. Their body size is typically 110–135 mm, with a 95–120 mm tail, and body weight 60–130 g, with adult males larger than females. The animal is used in science and research or kept as a small house pet. Their use in science dates back to the latter half of the 19th century, but they only started to be kept as pets in the English-speaking world after 1954, when they were brought to the United States. However, their use in scientific research has fallen out of favor.
Fun Fact
Mongolian gerbils were brought to the West as lab animals in 1954, and their friendly, curious temperament quickly made them one of the world's most popular pocket pets — second only to hamsters.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Steppes and semi-deserts
Diet
Omnivore
Lifespan
2-4 years
Threats
- Invasive Species
- Urban Expansion