Biology Hamster Babies

[Deavon]

The hammies from my bio class have been doing better, they have real food now, and the aggressive one is seperated into a roomy, empty 20 gallon tank. Only now the one in the tank (called Meadow) had her own litter of about 6 babies :rolleyes: . They were born last night, Meadow made them a nest out of tissues and seems to be taking good care of them. Only a few questions about babies:

Will she eat them? (I've heard many stories about hamsters being eaten.)

When can they be handled/tamed? When should they be seperated from Meadow?

I've had quite a few hamsters, but never any babies. Anyone who's done this before feel free to share any experiences or tips! Thanks a bunch!

-Deavon

[wheels]

There is a possibility that the mother could eat the babies. If she is a first time mother, then the risk is greater. However, the possibility is not great. It all depends on the hamster.

DO NOT touch the babies until they are at least 18 days old. If the cage needs to be cleaned, then pick up the mother and babie with a spoon or ice cream scoop, and place them in a container. After cleaning, put them back with the spoon or ice cream scoop. Make sure not to drop them!

[Deavon]

Thanks, I'll be sure to do that. She probably is a 1st time mother, but it's possible that she's had babies before. Only one more thing: When will they be old enough to go to new homes? There are many people willing to take them, especially so close to xmas. Thanks

-Deav

[wheels]

The babies should be seperated from the mother at 21-24 days of age. If you wait any longer, you risk the chances of them mating with each other.