on heat. (estrus)

I managed to catch a photo of Sonya on heat (estrus) this evening. I think it is important for all syrians owners to know how a female syrian looks like when she is on heat. (Note how the body is pressed to floor and her raised tail)

Syrians goes on estrus every 4 days. On this day if she is ready to receive a male, she will stay in this 'freezing' position. (I got the same effect by stroking her back for this photo) The gestation period for syrians is only 16 days, the shortest among all hamsters breeds. Some unethical breeders or owners who do not have enough knowledge do not realise that this means that syrians are able to get pregnant twice a month. This is a very important to take note of. Smaller sized syrians (which sadly, is become more of a common sight) come from continuous and inappropriate breedings.

I do not recommend breeding, but if one really do want to breed their hamsters, please do read up alot before attempting. Seek help from more experienced and beware of those who call themselves "professional breeders". Do not be afraid to ask alot of questions, and make sure you are pepared to take care of an entire litter plus mummy. Hamsters can be sexually active at 4 weeks old, please take precautions to separate the males and females at this point.

Please practise good breeding ethics to ensure that our beloved hamsters remain what they deserved to be - healthy.