True albinism has been seen in gerbils, but it is rare. It was first documented in a laboratory setting in 1989, according to Experimental Animals. But the gerbils in that study were confined to the laboratory and not bred as pets. Since then, albino gerbils have still not been introduced to the pet trade.
Why do gerbils eyes turn red?
In gerbils, in times of stress, the unbound porphyrin can leave deposits in the tear ducts, causing red colored stains around the eyes and nose as the tinted tear fluid leaves the eyes. These stains are often mistaken for blood, and must be differentiated.
What colors can gerbils come in?
Number Of Gerbil Colors
There are approximately 40 different gerbil coat colors in the world today, but there are only a few that are very common. These coat colors include argente golden, black, golden agouti, gray agouti, lilac, and slate.
Can gerbils see Colours?
Gerbils can see clearly but have better long-distance vision than near vision. Gerbils can see in color but are likely red-green colorblind and can see UV light like other rodents. Gerbils have poor depth perception but a wide field of vision, so they can see threats or predators coming.
What breed is a black gerbil?
Since Mongolian gerbils are such a common pet now, they have been selectively bred to have various coat colors. In the wild, they only ever have golden agouti colors. These gerbils can come in: Black.
How long do albino gerbils live?
Their average lifespan is approximately 2-4 years, around 3 years being typical. However, some gerbils have been reported to live for up to 5 years.
What is a black gerbil?
Black Gerbils
A black gerbil is a particular coloration of the Mongolian gerbil. Black gerbil coloring was developed in domestic gerbils and is not found in the wild. Black gerbils behave just like other Mongolian gerbil pets and are prone to the same health problems.
What is the rarest color of gerbil?
It is followed by Argente Fawn, the most common of the three, and Argente Cream, the rarest and lightest in the shade.
Are all black gerbils rare?
They may also have white patches on their underside and jaw and around their feet. Depending on where you live, black gerbils may be rare, or they may not be.
Are hamsters or gerbils better?
Gerbils don’t smell bad as they urinate less frequently than hamsters. Gerbils can learn commands, while hamsters are clever escape artists. Their care needs are about the same, but gerbils usually cost more as they need a companion. Both pets have their advantages and disadvantages, so there isn’t a better pet perse.
Do gerbils like the dark?
Gerbils live in the desert, or areas very like the desert. They are used to bright sunshine, so seeing a little sunshine won’t harm them at all. However, it’s best if you don’t leave your gerbil’s cage in the full sun. It’s far better to keep it somewhere shaded, not dark, but out of indirect sunlight.
Can gerbils be blind?
Gerbils can be blind, but blindness in gerbils is not related to their eye color. Gerbils can be born blind or become blind later in life for various reasons: Developmental abnormalities. Some gerbils’ eyes don’t develop properly, or at all, in the womb.
Do gerbils bite?
Gerbils don’t bite to be mean. Biting is usually a sign that your gerbil is scared. Shouting or flinching can make the gerbil more scared and more likely to bite again. Gerbils are good readers of emotion.
What is the friendliest gerbil?
Mongolian gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus) are popular pets due to their friendly temperament and ease of care. They are sociable, inquisitive animals and are easy to feed and keep clean. They are also small and easy to handle. Mongolian gerbils don’t grow larger than 5 to 6 inches (not including their tail).
What is the biggest gerbil?
characteristics. …of the largest is the great gerbil (Rhombomys opimus), which inhabits the deserts of Central Asia and is 15 to 20 cm (5.9 to 7.9 inches) long, with a slightly shorter, densely haired tail.
Do all gerbils have tails?
Gerbils do indeed have tails, and long ones too. In the Mongolian gerbil the tail is covered with a thin layer of fur, while the fat-tailed gerbil has a thicker, bald tail. So, Mongolian gerbils, with their long, furry tails, make a more appealing pet for anyone who dislikes the look of a mouse or rat tail.
References:
- https://www.petmd.com/exotic/conditions/skin/c_ex_gb_porphyrin_deposits
- https://squeaksandnibbles.com/gerbil-colors/
- https://www.gerbilwelfare.com/do-gerbils-have-good-eyesight/
- https://petkeen.com/gerbil-breeds/
- https://squeaksandnibbles.com/how-long-do-gerbils-live/
- https://squeaksandnibbles.com/little-black-gerbil-is-this-the-best-looking-pocket-pet/
- https://gerbilhub.com/what-are-the-color-variants-of-a-gerbil/
- https://www.gerbilwelfare.com/gerbil-colors-and-patterns/
- https://www.gerbilwelfare.com/hamsters-vs-gerbils-as-pets/
- https://www.gerbilwelfare.com/do-gerbils-like-light-or-dark/
- https://www.gerbilwelfare.com/do-gerbils-have-red-eyes/
- https://www.wikihow.com/React-when-Your-Gerbil-Bites-or-Scratches
- https://www.gerbilwelfare.com/what-kind-of-gerbil-should-i-get/
- https://www.britannica.com/animal/great-gerbil
- https://www.omlet.us/guide/gerbils/about_gerbils/do_gerbils_have_tails/