Gerbil (rodent)

The gerbil, also called sand rat, is any of a group of small desert rodents that are sometimes raised as house pets. Gerbils range from 3 to 5 inches in length, not including the slender tufted tail, which may be nearly as long as the body. Their short, soft coat is usually gray, brown, or reddish, and some species have one or two light-colored spots on the face.
Gerbils are native to dry, sandy regions of southern Africa and Asia. They live in small burrows and are most active at night, when they hunt for roots, seeds, and insects. Mating occurs throughout the year, and the young are born about three weeks later. Usually four young are born at a time, although the litter may range from one to seven young. As pets, gerbils are relatively easy to raise. They may be kept in wire cages and are fed a diet of grain, seeds, and grass. Like other desert animals, they require little water.
Gerbils are classified as order Rodentia, family Cricetidae, genus Gerbillus.