Gerb

Gerb is an informal name sometimes used for the small desert rodent commonly known as the gerbil. In formal zoological terms, gerb refers to members of the subfamily Gerbillinae within the family Muridae. The name is not a distinct taxon, but a shortened or dialectal variant of gerbil. The Mongolian gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus) is the best-known domesticated species and is widely kept as a pet and used in research.

Gerbils are small, sturdy rodents typically about 10-15 cm long with a tail of similar length. They have short ears, large eyes, and fur ranging from sandy browns to grays with lighter undersides. The tail is long and helps with balance; in some species it ends with a tuft. They are well adapted for digging and hopping, with strong hind legs.

Wild gerbils inhabit arid and semi-arid regions of Africa and Asia. They live in burrow systems to avoid heat and predators. They are omnivorous, feeding on seeds, grains, greens, and occasional insects, and they obtain most water from their food, tolerating dry conditions.

Gerbils are social animals that often live in small groups. They are primarily diurnal or crepuscular, active during the day or at dawn and dusk. They communicate with vocalizations, tail movements, and scent marking, and they engage in grooming and social interactions that reinforce group bonds.

Reproduction can occur year-round in favorable conditions. Gestation lasts about 24-26 days, with litters typically ranging from 4 to 7 pups. Weaning occurs at about 3-4 weeks. Lifespan in captivity is usually 3-4 years, shorter in the wild.

In captivity, gerbils require a secure enclosure with appropriate bedding, nesting options, and enrichment such as wheels and tunnels. They are popular pets and, in scientific contexts, have been used to study physiology and behavior due to their tractable temperament.