Shaw's Jirds

From The Pet Wiki

Shaw's Jirds are found in North Africa and the Middle East. Related to the Mongolian Gerbil, they are the size of a rat, 14 inches long with the tail half the length.The Shaw's Jird's size makes it easier to handle. Eyes and ears are large. Color is usually darker than the Mongolian Gerbil. Life span is about 6-7 years.

Housing can be a non-escapable cage or aquarium. Placing cardboard or clay tubes & clay pots in the cage and covering them with wood chips gives the Jird the opportunity to burrow. They also can be paper trained. They love to climb and jump and have been compared to cats because of their gracefulness.

Shaw's Jirds are curious and make very good pets as they don't usually bite and are tame and unafraid of humans. But if given the freedom of the home, remember that they will gnaw on any and everything and can cause damage both to themselves and your home. Males may be kept in pairs, females singly.

Jirds enjoy eating seeds, grains, fruits and veggies along with a small amount of meat and dry cat food. Mealworms can be found at your pet food supplier. And always give them a supply of fresh water.

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