Stuffed Common Hamster (Cricetus cricetus L.)

Taxidermist S. P. Lytvynenko.

The stuffed Common Hamster is one of the largest representatives of the hamster family (Cricetidae) and is distributed in the steppe and forest-steppe zones of Ukraine. The animal is depicted in a characteristic calm posture near the entrance to its burrow, corresponding to its natural behaviour while searching for food or observing its surroundings.

The hamster has a robust body, short limbs, and dense fur. The species is characterised by striking contrasting coloration: reddish-brown flanks and back are combined with darker areas of fur and light patches on the cheeks, chest, and sides of the body. Well-developed cheek pouches enable the animal to carry considerable quantities of food to underground storage chambers.

The Common Hamster is primarily nocturnal and digs complex burrow systems with numerous passages, storage chambers, and nesting compartments. Its diet consists mainly of seeds, grain, rhizomes, green plant matter, and small invertebrates. In autumn, the animal accumulates substantial food reserves, which it uses during the winter period.

The animal was found on the outskirts of the village of Ivashky, Poltava District, near a woodland in 2019.

Provenance: The specimen was donated to the museum by S. K. Bezuhlyi in 2020.