African Pygmy Dormice For Sale Uk? Best 75 Answer

Overview of African pygmy dormice

African pygmy dormice or Graphiurus murinus are about 15 cm including the tail and, as their large eyes suggest, are nocturnal. An African pygmy dormice is most active at dusk and dawn, which can mean its owners rarely see them. They are only semi-sociable; Although there are starting to be some tame African dormouse, this should not be taken as a guarantee. Most African dormouse remain wild and due to their speed and agility, handling an African dormouse can only be done with great care.

As pets, African pygmy dormice have complicated care needs, needing large enclosures, a varied diet, and are very fast and agile. and are not recommended for beginners.

African pygmy dormouse are also known as micro squirrels, African pygmy dormouse, woodland dormouse, and sometimes Egyptian dormouse. African pygmy dormice belong to the Gliridae family and are closely related to rats and mice. Unlike real mice, an African pygmy dormice has fur on the insides of its ears and on its bushy tails, possibly due to the need to conserve heat during hibernation.

African pygmy dormice have a body length of around 9 cm and an additional 7 cm for their tail, and are incredibly fast and agile. An African pygmy dormice has an average lifespan of 4-6 years.

An African pygmy dormice should be kept alone as they are colony animals, although as with many rodents, territorial disputes can occur. They make a variety of chirping and bird-like noises, see our behavior page for examples. African pygmy dormice kept singly or in pairs can be shyer and less active than a larger colony.

Your African pygmy dormice vivarium must be arboreal and very large. It must be kept at a minimum of 21°C to prevent them from going into a solidification state. They are extremely active and need a lot of climbing material, natural activities such as branches and tree trunks should be provided. An African pygmy dormouse vivarium should have as many nests as there are animals in the habitat, see our environment section for more details.

African pygmy dormice are exotic rodents that are relatively new to the pet trade and can therefore command a hefty price tag. The best place to start is to ask on exotics forums, as a good private breeder will likely have more knowledge than your average pet supply store, and you won’t take the risk of supporting rodent farms.

African dormouse require a varied diet, including providing nectar, as a wild African dormouse diet would include not only nectar and pollen, but also saps and other sweet gums. Live foods such as crickets can also be introduced and provide a vital natural enrichment.

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David Profumo takes a look at the lovable little dormouse – an adorable little creature that spends 75 percent of its life in deep sleep.

The dormouse isn’t really a mouse, and it’s not particularly common these days. This oddly endearing little rodent is rarely seen – it is both nocturnal and arboreal – and is synonymous with drowsiness, spending up to three quarters of its life asleep.

Our two British species differ markedly. The smaller, native dormouse (Muscardinus avellanarius) looks more murine, while the much larger ‘edible’ variety (Myoxus glis – once fattened in clay jars as an ancient Etruscan delicacy) has a bushier tail and somewhat a young gray squirrel. Originally introduced by Walter Rothschild in Tring Park in 1902, the latter’s population is largely restricted to the Chilterns, where they can be a household pest, chewing on wires and even biting people.

The dormouse is widespread in Europe and Asia Minor, but here its presence is patchy, with core ranges remaining in Surrey, Devon, Kent and central Wales.

It has rarely been found north of Durham and is absent from Scotland and Ireland. It was widespread again and often tamed as a pet in Victorian times; Beatrix Potter kept one and the naturalist Thorburn had a dozing mouse set up her dormitory in his canvas sketch screen.

With a 3 inch body and a similarly long tail, he’s a nice little fellow with a pointy face, prominent dark eyes and lively vibes. The soft fur varies from a Demerara sugar hue to reddish or even black, but isn’t waterproof, making foggy mornings or humid summers a misery.

The long, feathery tail (one in ten has a white tip) is covered in skin so delicate it’s easy to shed – a way of evading the grasp of predators like badgers and tawny owls. Folklore claims that the little golden derry mouse is immune to viper venom.

Edible dormouse (the plural sounds particularly pleasing somehow) populate the edges of deciduous forests – a habitat similar to that of nightingales – with a fondness for second growth chestnut, beech and hazel.

They rarely descend to the ground, but are agile at height in the canopy and, being double-jointed, can run headfirst down trunks. A decline in the practice of rotation woody plants – once vital for charcoal and wattle production – has reduced dormouse populations, which have declined by about 38% since 2000. The current estimate for the UK is around 45,000.

Emerging from their five-month hibernation in May, dormouse feed first on hawthorn pollen, then honeysuckle nectar. Their diet is seasonal and includes aphids and caterpillars in the summer, then berry picking in the fall.

Because they lack a cecum, they cannot digest the cellulose content of most leaves. Hazelnuts are their greatest delight, tackling them while still soft and green on the branch; The protein-rich kernels are obtained by nibbling a cavity, leaving telltale chisel marks in its rim.

By the end of October, the dormouse has to double its body fat reserves to prepare for winter.

Although the origin of its English name is unclear, I’ve always liked the idea that it derives from dormeuse (a type of nightcap). Mostly sluggish during the day, the dormouse also has phases of prolonged torpor in the summer – a state of aestheticization that can make it vulnerable. It can be found in three different types of nests.

The spherical summer nest is the size of a grapefruit, is usually several feet off the ground, and is often made of honeysuckle bark. The brood nest – which is prepared in June – is larger and lined with thistle down (they are particularly clean creatures). The hibernaculum is built on or below ground, often in leaf litter.

From October to late spring, the “dormouse” slumbers under tree stumps or in a haystack, with its tail in its face and panting softly. His heartbeat slows to a tenth of its normal rate to minimize energy expenditure. Mild winters do not suit the dormouse, as each awakening uses up valuable physical reserves. Climate change is not good for them.

Unusually for a small mammal, the dormouse produces a single, late litter (wood voles can manage six litters per year). The brood peaks in June, but little is known about her love life. Perhaps because it spends only a quarter of its lifespan awake, the dormouse is blessed with a long lifespan of up to four years (the vole has a life expectancy of just six months).

The most famous literary dormouse appears in The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, where it is used as a pillow and talks about syrup fountains. Due to the hallucinogenic associations of Wonderland’s hookah-sucking caterpillar, this scene is somewhat improbable due to the hallucinogenic associations of Jefferson Airplane’s song White Rabbit, and ends with “Remember what the dormouse said/ Feed your head, feed your head.”

Carroll’s creation more endearingly claims, “I wasn’t asleep… I heard every word you guys said.”

These are surprisingly interesting animals that might live in your forest. The first surprise is that although they are rodents, they are not mice at all. There are two species of dormouse you might encounter – the dormouse (Glis glis) and the native dormouse, sometimes referred to as the dormouse and technically known as Muscardinus avellanarius. The edible was not introduced to Britain until 1902 and is only found in a 200 square mile area near where it was introduced – Tring in Hertfordshire. It was grown for food in Roman times and is still eaten as a delicacy in Slovenia, but in England it is protected and therefore not on any menu, despite its name.

You’re much more likely to find the native dormouse, and that’s what this blog is all about. If you find one, it will be distinguished by a furry tail, golden fur, and black eyes. The native dormouse hibernates from around October to April and is one of only three British mammals to hibernate – the others being the hedgehog and the bat. If you accidentally disturb it, it will likely be curled up in its classic sleeping position, with its tail wrapped around its head, suggesting the origin of its name – from the French “dormir” – for sleeping. In fact, they are protected species under the WCA (Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981), so you must not intentionally disturb them.

dormouse lifestyle

The dormouse’s lifestyle is somewhat surprising as it spends most of its waking life in trees at night. It’s good that he can climb so well, because his main food is seeds, flowers and aphids. It eats a variety of mostly protein-rich foods but, like humans, cannot digest cellulose. Your forest is more likely to contain dormouse if it is in south-east England, East Anglia or Shropshire, and even more likely if your forest is part of a larger forest block. More isolated forests may harbor dormouse if there are hedgerows connecting to larger areas of forest. In any case, there won’t be many, since they occur in low densities. This sparse pattern appears to have contributed to their lack of natural predators.

Dormice have a long life expectancy for a small mammal, living to 4-5 years. During this time, the females only have one litter per year.

Distribution of dormouse in Britain

They have often been thought of as being restricted to hazel forests, but this idea may arise because the hazel is usually wintered every 7-8 years and stockworkers are likely to report finding overwintering dormouse. In fact, they are found much further than just in hazel forests.

Much research has been done on the distribution of dormouse, including the Great Nut Hunts of 1993 and 2001, in which chewed hazelnut shells were sent to researchers in Royal Holloway. This established that dormouse were virtually extinct in the Midlands and Yorkshire. There have been reintroductions over the past 15 years, but only at about one site per year.

How a hazelnut is chewed gives a good indication of which animal ate it. For more on this and the Great Nut Hunts visit: http://www.greatnuthunt.org.uk/about/default.asp. Essentially, a dormouse chews a circular opening in the top of the shell to get at the nut. “If you’re looking for evidence of hazelnuts,” says Ian White of the People’s Trust for Endangered Species, “you should check in late September, after the hazelnuts have ripened but before the leaves fall.”

Do you have dormouse in your forest?

If you think there might be dormouse in your forest, you might want to build a dormouse box. This is a bit like a small bird box, but the hole is in the back to discourage birds from using it and to allow the dormouse to climb in from the tree trunk. If you really want to promote dormouse you can download the Dormouse Conservation Handbook online for free at: http://www.english-nature.org.uk/pubs/publication/PDF/Dormouse_web.pdf . Its conservation status is further detailed in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan at http://www.ukbap.org.uk/UKPlans.aspx?ID=462.

Why bother?

A species such as a dormouse is an “umbrella species” because, when conditions are right for dormouse, it is suited to a variety of other forest species. You need a variety of plant species, good forest structure (ideally unequally mature trees) and trees that are not too close together. Hedges connecting wooded areas are good for dormouse, but many other species do as well. Many people want to protect the edible dormouse simply because it is native and represents part of the diversity in our forests.

Have you come across any signs of dormouse in your forest?

See also https://www.woodlands.co.uk/blog/wildlife/the-dormouse/

Dormice are an important indicator species for determining the health of forests, but their populations have declined by a third in the UK since 2000 and they are now extinct in 17 counties across England.

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The charismatic mice are typically found in wooded, rural areas where they rely on hazel trees for their main habitat.

The main cause of their decline is believed to be habitat loss, but climate change also plays a role. As winters get warmer, dormouse can wake up from hibernation too early if they can’t rely on hazelnut trees for food.

With their declining numbers, dormouse could use all the help they can get. Luckily, there are a few very simple ways people can help, such as: Things like leaving ivy on trees, growing brambles, and building woodpiles can all provide them with good roosting spots for their hibernation.

Edible dormouse are arboreal, which means they prefer to live in the treetops and spend as little time as possible on the ground, where they can be more vulnerable to predators.

Managing forests through coppice can also help dormouse by ensuring that the treetops touch each other, allowing them to move freely through forests without having to endanger themselves by crossing fields or roads.

The National Trust ranger holds a pair of dormouse during monthly surveillance on the Cotehele Estate in Cornwall. ©National Trust/George Holmes

The woods on the National Trust’s Cotehele Estate in Cornwall (where the dormouse were found in this image) are managed by rangers in exactly this way.

Rangers here conduct monthly monitoring of the dormouse population on the property between April and October, where 50 dormouse nest boxes have been installed. Found dormouse are counted, age, sex, weight and respiratory condition are recorded. The information is then sent to a national database so researchers can better see the country’s population.

If you are lucky enough to see a dormouse, please report your sighting to the People’s Trust for Endangered Species to help the conservation organization increase their knowledge of the species.

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Keep in mind that handling dormouse requires a special license, so people are discouraged from picking one up.

The harvest mouse is Britain’s smallest species of rodent, weighing less than a twopence coin. Although often associated with crops, this little mouse can be found in a variety of habitats, from reed beds to roadsides and rough grasslands.

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This species also has a unique ability not possessed by any other mammal in the UK – a semi-graspable (prehensile) tail. This means he can curl up the top third of his tail, almost like an extra hand, perfect for climbing tall logs.

We know very little about the numbers and distribution of harvest mice in the UK so it is important to record sightings of these animals so we can improve conservation strategies to protect them.

Learn more about harvest mice in our Mammal Society expert guide, including identification, diet, and habitat.

What is the scientific name of the harvest mouse?

The scientific name for harvest mouse is Micromys minutus. The genus Micromys belongs to the rodent family Muridae, which is the largest family of rodents with over 700 species.

Micromys means “micros” and means “small” and mys “mouse”, where minutus means “tiny”. Harvest mice are by far the smallest members of the family and have short, blunt snouts and prehensile tails, meaning they can grab things with their tails.

There are six murid species in Britain, plus the harvest mouse:

wood mouse (Apodemus sylvaticus)

Yellow-necked mouse (Apodemus flavicollis)

house mouse (Mus musculus)

brown rat (Rattus norvegicus)

Black rat (Rattus rattus)

How do I recognize harvest mice

How big are harvest mice?

Harvester mice are very small, weighing only 5-8 grams. They have golden-brown fur, a pale belly, and a semi-prehensile tail. Compared to other mouse species, their muzzle appears blunt and their eyes and ears are relatively smaller. The combined length of the head and body is 5-7 cm and their tail is of similar length.

Other similar species to look out for are:

Dormouse: This species (and the non-native dormouse, which is much larger and greyer) are the only rodents in Britain to have bushy tails. The fur is orange/yellow above and pale below with white throat patches. They have long black whiskers and distinctive black eyes.

dormouse. © Charlie Fayers/Mammal Society

House Mouse: Unlike the golden fur of harvest mice, house mice have a greyish-brown coat and much more protruding ears than the small, delicate ears of harvest mice. They are also larger than harvest mice, with a head and body length of 7-9 cm and a similarly sized tail.

House mouse. © Roy Rimmer/Mammal Society

Wood Mouse and Yellow-necked Mouse: Both have large prominent eyes and ears with darker red/brown fur than harvest mice. Yellow-necked mice have a yellow collar that extends down the neck from one shoulder to the other. Wood mice can also have a yellow patch on their necks, but not a full collar. They are similar in size or larger than house mice.

wood mouse. © Roy Rimmer/Mammal Society

yellow-necked mouse. © Derek Smith/Mammal Society

Bank vole and field vole: These species also have smaller snouts than mice, but neither do they have the golden-brown color of harvest mice. They are also much larger at 9-11 cm and 20-40 g and their tails are shorter than their bodies.

Bank vole peeking out of hole in a wall. © Simon Gakhar/Getty

How do harvest mice use their tails?

The harvest mouse’s tail is unique in that it is semi-graspable (capable of grasping). For example, harvest mice can use the end third of their tails to grab things like blades of grass—almost like an extra hand! This and their light weight make them excellent climbers and can move off the ground in tall grass, reeds or scrub in summer and fall.

Harvest the mouse with its tail. © Dennis Brown/Mammal Society

Where are harvest mice found?

The Eurasian harvest mouse is found across much of Europe and also parts of Asia including China, Japan and India. They are not found in Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland and there are very few records in Scotland – only five in the last 20 years!

What Habitats Do Harvest Mice Live In?

Harvester mice are found in a variety of habitats including rough grasslands, reed beds, bank edges, roadsides, hedgerows, cereal crops (e.g. oats and wheat), field edges and wild bird forage. Their small size and semi-prehensile tail make them great climbers and can easily occupy the culm zones of these habitats.

harvest mice. © Derek Crawley/Mammal Society

How many harvest mice are there in the UK?

According to the IUCN-approved Red List of UK Mammals published by the Mammal Society in 2020, there are an estimated 532,000 in England and 34,000 in Wales, although these estimates are subject to a great deal of uncertainty and much more research needs to be done . There have only been five records of harvest mice in Scotland over the past 20 years and these have been scattered between the Borders, Paisley and the North Coast.

What do harvest mice eat?

Harvest mice eat a mix of seeds, berries, and insects. They can also eat moss, roots and fungi. Sometimes they take grain from grain kernels, which leaves characteristic crescent-shaped residues; noticeable damage to grain crops is very rare.

Harvest mouse on canola. © Roy Rimmer/Mammal Society

What do harvest mice eat?

Because harvest mice are active day and night, they can be preyed upon by several different predators, although they typically make up a very small portion of their diet.

Predatory species include martens (such as weasels and stoats, as well as polecats), foxes, domestic cats, owls, hawks, corvids, shrikes and pheasants. Young can be eaten by blackbirds or even toads.

Do harvest mice hibernate?

Harvest mice do not hibernate and can struggle to feed during the cold winter months when food is scarce.

Are harvest mice territorial?

Harvester mice are generally non-territorial, however there is evidence that females become territorial during the breeding season when brood nests tend to be regularly separated from each other. In captivity, breeding females are known to relentlessly chase males, and tail biting can be common at high densities.

Are harvest mice nocturnal or diurnal?

Although primarily nocturnal, and particularly at dawn and dusk, harvest mice can be active during the day, particularly during the summer months when days are longer.

How long do harvest mice live?

Harvester mice can live up to 18 months in the wild, but are more commonly 6-12 months. For example, animals born in the fall can survive the winter until the following year’s breeding season.

What are baby harvest mice called?

In general, baby mice of all types are referred to as pups. Pregnant females build specific brood nests about 10 cm in diameter (twice the size of a non-breeding nest) and gestation lasts 17 to 19 days.

Baby Harvest Mice. ©Oxford Scientific/Getty

The females give birth to up to seven young, which are dependent on their mother for the first two weeks of life. They are born blind and without fur, weighing no more than 0.8 g each. A gray coat begins to develop after four days, teeth after a week and eyes open after about nine days. They venture out of the nest at about 11 days, and their golden fur begins to grow in two weeks.

How to recognize signs of harvest mice

The best sign of harvest mice is their nests. Nests that are not brooding can be very difficult to spot and during the breeding season it is best to stay clear of brood nests so mothers and their young are not disturbed.

Harvest mouse nest surveys usually take place in late autumn and winter, when vegetation has died down enough for nests to be more easily spotted. Split grass blades can sometimes be found where nest construction has begun but has not yet been completed, although these are difficult to spot.

A pygmy mouse nest. © Mammal Society

Where are the best places to see harvest mice in the UK?

Harvester mice are known to be fairly widespread in the south of the UK, south of a line drawn from The Wash to the River Severn. However, there is evidence of this species from all over Great Britain and even isolated evidence as far away as the north coast of Scotland!

Harvest mice are best looked for in tall tussock grasses in hedges, field edges and reed beds. However, given the animal’s tiny stature itself, it is often elusive, and evidence of their presence is primarily identified by their distinctive braided grass nests.

Are harvest mice endangered?

Harvester mice are not globally endangered and are currently listed as Least Concern on the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.

However, they are near threatened across the UK, according to the Mammal Society IUCN authorized Red List of British Mammals. They are critically endangered in Scotland, where we know very little about their numbers, in Wales they are vulnerable and in England they are listed as Least Concern.

What is done to harvest mice?

Many local volunteer mammal groups are conducting county-based harvest mouse surveys and Chester Zoo has also been looking into their ecology in Cheshire. The Mammal Society has conducted several harvest mouse surveys over the years, and a new national survey will begin in the fall.

The Society will work with many local groups to understand the current distribution of this elusive small mammal. The survey is based on nest searches and is conducted in England, Scotland and Wales. If you would like to get involved in the project, you can find out more and register your interest on the Mammal Society’s website.

There are a number of organizations across the UK working to harvest mice, get in touch with local wildlife and conservation groups in your area to find out if they have any harvest mouse projects running.

Founded in 1954, the Mammal Society is a charity that promotes the science-led conservation of mammals to preserve these charismatic species for future generations. As the only society focused on all of Britain’s mammals, it works to identify effective conservation strategies and provide scientific evidence to guide policy and practice.

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main picture:

They are cute too. Who could resist a bat that’s barely bigger than a human fingernail, or a lemur that weighs an ounce?

In the biological world, it seems like bigger is better. And while it’s true that bigger often means stronger (and therefore can outperform smaller species), it also means more resources are needed to maintain the extra mass, and you can just forget about being inconspicuous. Smaller animals are better at hiding, reaching into tight spaces, climbing the thinnest branches, and occupying ecological niches that larger animals simply cannot.

1 of 11 Etruscan shrew lies Van Rompaey on iNaturalist/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY 4.0 There are many little shrews, but this tiny one is the smallest. The Etruscan shrew is the world’s smallest mammal by mass. On average, it weighs less than 0.14 ounces and has a body length of about 1.57 inches. However, for such a small animal, it has a huge appetite, typically eating about twice its own body weight each day.

2 of 11 Little jerboas reptiles4all / Shutterstock Little jerboas form the rodent subfamily Cardiocraniinae and are the world’s smallest rodents. Their bodies start at two to three inches in length and their tails measure up to three inches. For their size, these tiny mammals sure can jump. Jerboas have kangaroo-like legs that allow them to leap well beyond their body length, an adaptation that helps them move quickly across the vast, arid deserts of North Africa and Asia they call home.

3 of 11 Bumblebee Bat Merlin Tuttle’s Bat Conservation The bumblebee bat, also known as Kitti’s hog-nosed bat, is the smallest bat in the world and the mammal with the smallest skull. Weighing in at about 0.07 ounces (less than a dime) and 1.14 inches long, it’s so small you might mistake one for a bumblebee if it buzzes in your ear at night. Unfortunately, its delicate size is also an indication of its biological status. The IUCN lists the animal as Near Threatened, and some roost populations are critically endangered mainly due to human activities.

4 of 11 Mouse Lemur Michel VIARD/Getty Images These adorable creatures are the world’s smallest primates, measuring up to 11 inches in length including their tail. The smallest species is Madame Berthe’s mouse lemur, which is only about 3.5 to 4.3 inches long and weighs only about an ounce. These softball-sized omnivores eat alone, eating primarily “honeydew,” a sugary byproduct of insect digestion. Although they spend their feeding time alone, they sleep with other mouse lemurs about half the time.

5 of 11 Littlest Weasel Carol Hamilton / Getty Images This picky, wise little weasel is the smallest species of the carnivore order, making it the world’s smallest true carnivore. North American males of the least weasel reach only seven inches, and females grow to 5 inches. It weighs less than 1.5 ounces. It might be hard to imagine that something so small could be such a cunning hunter, but the little weasel is every small rodent’s worst nightmare it encounters. They display a much larger, wilder personality than their small size would suggest.

6 of 11 pygmy opossum TED MEAD / Getty Images These mini marsupials are between two and four inches long and often weigh just over 0.35 ounces. These mini marsupials hang upside down in trees in Australia and New Guinea. The IUCN lists one species, the mountain pygmy possum, as critically endangered. This species has a limited habitat in the alpine areas of Australia. Ski resorts, road construction and widespread bush fires have led to habitat destruction. The migratory bogong moth makes up a significant portion of its diet, carrying arsenic from pesticides in breeding areas up the mountain. Scientists believe this is a factor leading to the declining population.

7 of 11 African Harvest Mouse PapaPics / Getty Images Mice are known for their small size, but the African Harvest Mouse takes that trait to the extreme. Measuring 1.2 to 3.1 inches in length and weighing just 0.11 ounces, it’s the world’s smallest mouse. It’s so dainty that it usually stays hydrated by licking dew from tiny pebbles it deftly stacks in front of its burrow. Some people keep these elf mice as entertaining pets. However, owners must keep their hands off them as they are incredibly fragile.

8 of 11 Pygmy Marmosets Jenhung Huang / Getty Images Occasionally referred to as “pocket monkeys,” these adorable, inquisitive animals native to the Amazon rainforest are the world’s smallest monkeys. Pygmy marmosets rarely measure more than about 5.12 inches in length and typically weigh 4.37 ounces. Their diet is as unique as their size. They use their sharp teeth and nails to dig holes in trees and eat the sap, gum, and resins they contain. They also eat insects. Evolutionary biologists from the University of Salford published a study in February 2018 announcing that the pygmy marmoset is actually two different species: one living in the northern Amazon and the other in the south.

9 of 11 Long-tailed Planigals Alan Couch / Flickr / CC of 2.0 Native to Australia, the long-tailed planigals are the world’s smallest marsupials. They weigh less than 0.15 ounces and average 2.32 inches in length, including the tail. Their small size and flattened heads allow planigales to squeeze into crevices and crevices that any other mammal would find impossible. This ability allows them to find food and hide from predators. Their pouches face backwards to keep them clean while navigating these crevices. These fierce nocturnal carnivores prey on insects and even young mammals almost as large as themselves.

10 of 11 American shrew Owen Borseth / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0 The world’s smallest mole species is the American shrew. This tiny mammal measures 4.72 inches long, including the tail, and weighs about 0.35 ounces. The American shrew doesn’t even have external ears and tiny eyes that are almost invisible. Found in the Northwestern United States and British Columbia in Canada, these adorable underground dwellers have smaller front paws than most other moles, a trait resembling a shrew. These moles travel in groups of 11 or more individuals and spend more time above ground than other moles.

Melissa cares for a variety of exotic animals and holds a certificate in veterinary assistance and a bachelor’s degree in biology.

Some people may wonder if squirrels can be kept as pets, especially when they find orphaned wild squirrels in need of care. Vincent Van Zalinge

Legality of Pet Squirrels

Fast and charismatic little rodents, squirrels are among the most commonly observed mammals in the North American wilderness. Their bouncy, bushy tails give them an appeal that eludes other rodents like rats and mice. Some people may wonder if squirrels can be kept as pets, especially when they find orphaned wild squirrels in need of care.

Can you keep a squirrel as a pet?

The answer is yes and no. If the species of squirrel you wish to keep is legal in your state, then yes. At least one species of squirrel is legal in most states; Hawaii and California are exceptions, and there are probably others. All squirrel species require a lot of space in relation to their size. Many squirrels are arboreal animals that should have plenty of height clearance, and the terrestrial species should have enough room to forge and play. Unless your enclosure is huge, they also need to be let out to play regularly. Some owners choose to keep squirrels in large outdoor aviaries.

Legality of Pet Squirrels

While many states ban so-called exotic animals, you’ll find that most regulations make no specific mention of squirrels. However, this does not mean that squirrels are legal. They are often considered wild animals and are regulated separately. Native animals, regardless of where they were born, are generally illegal in most states, and this applies to squirrels. Other states may allow captive-bred squirrels but ban those raised from the wild. If you find a wild squirrel that needs care, it’s best to consult a licensed wildlife ranger.

Gray Squirrel “Squirrel” by GalgenTX is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Types of Pet Squirrels

Gray Squirrel

Everyone is very familiar with this everyday sight. Gray squirrels often arrive at nature centers and are found in every contiguous state. Most people own gray squirrels when they adopt them from the wild, but there are a small number of breeders. They can be challenging pets, and many states make it illegal to take them from the wild to keep as pets. While any animal with teeth can bite, gray squirrels have been known to bite at least once in a while. They’re also equipped with sharp claws, so they’re not pets for people unwilling to tolerate some harm. They will also bond with just one person and everyone else will not be able to deal with them. These are poor pets for most people. The same is true of the native fox squirrel, which is the largest tree squirrel species in North America.

Chipmunk “chipmunk” by LongitudeLatitude is licensed under CC BY 2.0

chipmunk

Not many people know that these little rodents are also a species of squirrel. Currently, chipmunks are becoming increasingly difficult to find in the United States, but non-native Siberian chipmunks, which resemble those found in our backyards, are the most commonly available and are more likely to be legal due to their exotic nature. The smaller size of chipmunks gives them more reasonable enclosure size requirements, but many owners prefer to house them in large aviaries. Chipmunks aren’t avid climbers like gray squirrels, but they can still benefit from a cage with ledges and climbing spots. Chipmunks can be affectionate and interact with their owners.

Rock Squirrel “Ground squirrel” by Vince Smith is licensed under CC BY 2.0

rock squirrel

Rock squirrels are not common pets, but some people keep them. They are native to parts of the American Southwest and Mexico. They are one of the largest squirrel species and look similar to prairie dogs. Also, like prairie dogs, they have a primarily herbivorous diet, are social rodents, and dig communal burrows. Because they live in colonies, this animal will have strong social needs in captivity.

Flying Squirrel Lavandarfields (CC BY-SA 2.0) Via Flickr

Flying squirrel

Flying squirrels are probably the “best” pets on this list. These little creatures are very affectionate, becoming attached to their owner and can even get along with people who aren’t their caregivers. In addition, they make cool pets as they have a membrane on their sides that allows them to slide from branch to branch. Similar to the young of some marsupials, humans establish this relationship by carrying the rodents around in special pouches for a few hours a day for the first few weeks of their lives. Flying squirrels like to be in a well-equipped enclosure such as an aviary; it doesn’t have to be huge. These squirrels are native to parts of the United States, so check your local animal laws.

Prevost Squirrel Susanne Nilsson (CC BY-SA 2.0) Via Flickr

Prevost squirrel

These squirrels are stunningly beautiful and better suited as pets than gray squirrels. They’re unfortunately hard to find these days, costing around $1000 if you can find one. Like other tree squirrels, they still have very sharp claws and love to climb up their owner’s body. This can be quite a painful experience. Tree squirrels do best in the largest enclosure you can accommodate. While they can be kept in smaller cages a few feet tall, this will make living with them more difficult as they often need to be let out and if they do they can have extremely sharp, high pitched squeaks coming out! Ideally, a walk-in enclosure is best.

Richardson’s Ground Squirrel Subarcticmike CC BY 2.0 Via Flickr

Richardson’s ground squirrel

This species is also known as the “flickertail squirrel” because of the quivering movements of their tails. This is another rodent that resembles rock squirrels and prairie dogs. They are primarily herbivorous hay eaters that should be fed and cared for much like prairie dogs. They are terrestrial and can use an impeller which makes an excellent asset for rodents that use them regularly. They can easily be housed in a multi-tier cage used for ferrets or chinchillas with standard pet store bedding (avoiding poisonous cedar and non-kiln dried pine).

Prairie Dog “Prairie Dog” by Paul Hudson is licensed under CC BY 2.0

prairie dog

Yes, prairie dogs are a type of squirrel too. This is a large species of ground squirrel that is probably one of the most popular exotic rodents. Unfortunately, they were briefly banned in 2003 when a monkeypox outbreak spread to some people caused by the importation of wild-caught Gambian opossums. They are currently legal, and only a handful of states make them illegal as pets. Prairie dogs are considered highly intelligent because they use a complex system of vocalizations to communicate with each other. They can be affectionate pets but can also direct aggression at strangers. Their enclosure and care requirements are fairly reasonable; A diet consisting mostly of hay and grasses, a multi-story ferret cage, and a shared pet shop for small animals will keep them happy.

This article is accurate and truthful to the best of the author’s knowledge. It is not intended to replace diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, prescription or formal and individual advice from a veterinarian. Animals showing signs and symptoms of stress should be presented to a veterinarian immediately.

© 2018 Melissa A Smith

Melissa A. Smith (author) from New York on May 15, 2018:

Thank you Larry!

Larry W. Fish of Raleigh on April 20, 2018:

I loved your article on squirrels, Melissa. When I was a little boy living in the Pocono Mountains of northeastern Pennsylvania, we had a pet gray squirrel. That goes back almost sixty years. Fuzzy came up and sat on our laps and took nuts from our hands. I was a true country boy and this is a pet I will always remember.

House mice hold prints

Can you keep a mouse as a pet?

Mice are active little creatures and make great pets. A pet mouse is fairly low maintenance as it is quiet and doesn’t take up much space. They need to be kept in same-sex pairs (preferably littermates) as they are very social and it can be very entertaining to watch them play. Mated females tend to get along better than mated males.

They are best suited for those with limited time or a limited budget and are particularly good for school-age children and people who live in apartments. They usually have a lifespan of 1-3 years.

What can mice eat?

As many people know, mice will eat almost anything, including grains and meat products. A combination of fresh fruits and vegetables and a small amount of commercially available mouse cubes or pellets provide good nutrition for a mouse.

An example of fresh fruits and vegetables are apples (without seeds), bananas, beans, berries, Asian vegetables and broccoli. Brussels sprouts, carrots, celery, citrus fruits, fresh corn, cantaloupe, parsley, peas, pears, stone fruit, and tomatoes are also good choices.

Mice should never be fed exclusively grain or seed mixes. Bread, breakfast cereals, cooked pasta and rice and seeds should be considered indulgences.

It’s a good idea to provide some fresh hay for extra fiber, and this is also good material for mice to build nests with to keep warm.

Be careful not to overfeed your mice as this can lead to problems like diarrhea and obesity. You should always offer your mice fresh, cool water.

The best mouse house

Mice need a very secure metal or plastic cage with a good lid or roof. They are great escape artists and once they come out, they probably won’t come back! Each wire floor should be covered to avoid damage to the feet.

Birdcage style enclosures are usually better than glass or plastic tubs. Mice are particularly prone to heat stroke, so old aquariums should be avoided as they can get dangerously hot and humid. Always provide plenty of ventilation for your mice and always keep them in the shade.

Bedding should be absorbent and changed regularly. Wood shavings can be used, but these should be unscented to avoid respiratory problems. Recycled paper cat litter is a good choice. Never use sawdust as bedding as it is too dusty. Change the bed linen two to three times a week. Provide a nest box (an old flower pot works well) to sleep in so the mice can feel safe, secure, and warm. Nesting material can be in the form of shredded newspaper or paper towel.

You should provide a bowl and water bottle that attach to the side of the cage to prevent spills.

Mice are very intelligent and need a lot of mental stimulation. An exercise bike is a must for these hardworking little creatures. You can also provide empty toilet rolls and tubes for tunnels, as well as a mini hammock and hide-and-seek boxes.

It’s also a good idea to provide your mice with a wooden chewing block to wear down your mice’s teeth (since their teeth are continually growing).

handling mice

Mice may be shy, but if they are handled a lot from a young age, they will get used to being held. Always handle your mouse calmly and gently. It is best to pick up a mouse by the base of its tail and then quickly support it underneath. Never pick up your mouse by the tip of its tail.

bathing mice

Mice are particularly demanding when it comes to keeping themselves clean, so they shouldn’t need a regular bath. In fact, a change in the coat can indicate an underlying illness or condition, so it’s best to have this checked out by a veterinarian.

If you must bathe your mouse, a gentle sponge bath with a warm, damp cloth is best. Never put your mouse in a tub of water. Make sure your mouse is dry with a dry cloth and never use a hair dryer as noise and heat can be very tiring for your mouse.

How to care for mice

When kept in a clean environment with a quality diet, mice should remain healthy and happy. A healthy mouse is alert, active, and has a round body. Eyes, nose and buttocks should be clean and free of any discharge.

Sneezing or difficult breathing can indicate breathing problems, while drooling or a wet mouth can indicate a dental problem. If you’re ever concerned about your pet mouse, it’s best to ask your veterinarian for advice.

OXFORD, England – A taste of stuffed dormouse, anyone?

The dish was a delicacy in ancient Rome. It was prepared by gutting the mouse, stuffing it with ground pork and baking it. The dormouse had previously been fattened in a special vessel that had tiny ridges molded into it so it could walk around before being slaughtered. One such vessel is featured in Last Supper at Pompeii, a new exhibition running at the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford until January 12, 2020.

Pompeii is perhaps our most important window into ancient Rome. When Mount Vesuvius erupted in AD 79, this ordinary Roman city was buried under overheated ash. The heat killed the townspeople almost instantly, even as the ash preserved their last moments for all time, giving us a glimpse into the daily lives of the ancient Romans — including what they ate and how they ate it.

Food was an integral part of Roman culture; Pompeii alone was surrounded by around 80 farms and vineyards. Meals were served and offered to the gods in frescoed dining rooms, but also in bars and restaurants.

Going to college can be an ordeal. During this stressful time, many college students turn to pets for comfort. In fact, animals can be a wonderful source of fun and companionship. That means getting a college-friendly pet is a good idea. It’s all about knowing which pets are good for college dorms.

The best college pets are small and easy to care for. Popular options include birds, fish, reptiles, and rodents. You will find that snakes, turtles, lizards, fish and hermit crabs are the most carefree. If you want more interactive pets, you can choose gerbils and hamsters as they take up little space but love to cuddle. For the more interactive, rest assured that chinchillas, cockatiels and hedgehogs are good options.

All of these pet options have small enclosures, uncomplicated diets, and don’t mind spending some alone time. However, consider the pet’s needs before getting it. Some need more attention than others in exchange for more love and affection. Others prefer to spend time alone so you can enjoy their company without as much interaction. You should also review your college campus’ pet policy before proceeding.

Why bring pets to college?

While highly rewarding, college is a stressful, time-consuming endeavor. Many people worry about taking care of a pet while juggling. However, there are real advantages to bringing a pet to college.

Many studies show that pets are good for our health, including a study published in Animals. Here it was found that dogs and their owners experience a surge in oxytocin, a feel-good hormone, with every interaction. This can improve your mood, improve productivity, and make each day a little better. So, during exam weeks, a pet can help with:

affection . Pets can give you love, whether it’s by sitting on your lap while you write essays or by welcoming you back to the dorm after class.

. Pets can give you love, whether it’s by sitting on your lap while you write essays or by welcoming you back to the dorm after class. Reduced feelings of isolation. This is especially true for freshmen who haven’t made friends yet.

. This is especially true for freshmen who haven’t made friends yet. Relaxation . In your free time or during breaks, you can cuddle, pet, play or watch your pet.

. In your free time or during breaks, you can cuddle, pet, play or watch your pet. encouragement to take breaks. Overwork won’t help your education, and pets need grooming. This encourages you to get some fresh air and enjoy your pet’s company.

. Overwork won’t help your education, and pets need grooming. This encourages you to get some fresh air and enjoy your pet’s company. Help with anxiety and depression. Anxiety and depression rates among college students are reportedly on the rise. The right small pet can help calm and comfort you.

So the key is to choose the right pet for your college dorm.

10 small pets for college dorms

Of course, not every dorm allows cats or dogs. You certainly cannot bring your beloved miniature horse with you either. Instead, the best pets for college are small creatures. You must also be:

Calm

Afterwards easy to clean

Low maintenance so they don’t interfere with your other tasks

Able to stay in dorm friendly enclosure when you’re not around

Approved and allowed by most student residences.

What animals meet these requirements but still make great pets?

fishes

Fish are quiet but colorful creatures, making them a top favorite for college dorms. For their owners, they can:

Enhance a living area

Keep them entertained with their colors and swim patterns

Give you a sense of camaraderie

Provide a great distraction when taking breaks

In addition to the personal benefits, there are technical reasons for choosing a fish.

If you only keep one or two, your tank will be on the small side.

If well maintained, their tank won’t leave any damage or mess for the dorms to worry about.

The fish does not make noise to disturb roommates.

Even pet-free universities usually make exceptions for Pisces. They only have to be kept in a correspondingly small aquarium.

Fish is cheap. Setting up a basic aquarium can cost under $20 in some cases.

Best fish for college

Whether you are knowledgeable about fishkeeping or a beginner, it is recommended to start small. That’s because:

Dorms have limited space.

Larger aquariums can get messy if not properly cared for.

You should consider changes in your schedule. If you have time for complicated fish now, you won’t be able to later in the semester.

With that in mind, some of the best Pisces for college students include:

tetras . These should be kept in a school with 5 or more students.

. These should be kept in a school with 5 or more students. guppies . These must be in a school of 3 or more.

. These must be in a school of 3 or more. goldfish. These can be stored individually.

. These can be stored individually. betta fish Males should be kept alone while females can be 4-5 in a tank.

Just stay away from closed system aquariums. They are marketed as being perfect for college students. However, keeping such an aquarium is not only ineffective, but can also be inhumane. By design, these systems cannot keep aquariums properly clean. You will cause injury and death to your fish.

gerbils

If you want a more interactive pet, gerbils are ideal. These little rodents are great for kids, but these benefits extend to college life, too. Because gerbils are:

Small. Your housing may require some initial investment. However, due to their small size, a gerbil cage easily fits on a shelf.

Your housing may require some initial investment. However, due to their small size, a gerbil cage easily fits on a shelf. Low maintenance effort . With a companion, they will happily chat for days.

. With a companion, they will happily chat for days. Not aggressive. With enough enrichment, your gerbil will be calm and affectionate.

. With enough enrichment, your gerbil will be calm and affectionate. Cleaner than most pets. With their thorough cleaning habits, you won’t find that your dorm room smells like rodents.

. With their thorough cleaning habits, you won’t find that your dorm room smells like rodents. I don’t mind cuddling. Want a friend to hold you while you bang your head all night? Then gerbils like to snuggle up on the chest or neck.

However, gerbils cannot live in wire cages. You need to get the right enclosure and a fair amount of toys. Otherwise, you might find them getting frustrated and ready to flee. Because of their small size, this can be life-threatening for them on campus.

hermit crabs

Want more activity than a fish but less than a gerbil? Then a hermit crab is perfect. These creatures live in aquariums, which minimizes the footprint and pollution they create. However, perfecting tank conditions can be time consuming.

Their habitat should be monitored for temperature and humidity changes.

You need to invest in thermometers and hygrometers.

Your substrate can be expensive as it needs to be treated against bacteria.

You must provide a tank large and deep enough for crabs to burrow.

Even so, hermit crabs make great collegiate pets.

Once their tank is set up, you can keep several of them in an enclosure.

They show complex moulting, shell changing and foraging behavior. This can be fascinating to watch.

Hermit crabs are not fussy and will eat most foods. You will not pay out large amounts in tricky diets.

Crabs are extremely low maintenance. With enough companions, they’ll be content to run their own company while you learn.

Hermit crab aquariums only need to be cleaned once a week. Your substrate should be cleaned three times a year.

This is definitely an asset for the busy college student.

tortoise

Turtles are more interactive than hermit crabs, but they also require extra care. Are you a college student who would like to have a pet that they can relate to better? Then it can be a good compromise.

Turtles can be let out of their tanks to roam around the dorm.

A well-socialized turtle will not be startled by petting or holding.

Turtles are hardy creatures, so caring for them is less of a learning curve.

Certain turtle species are more active, ready to hunt for food or interact with their owners.

Turtles come in all sizes. If you want a larger pet to be petted, there are medium-sized options to fit your dorm room. If you want small turtles, you can keep several in one tank.

Of course, every turtle has different needs. If you want a beginner-friendly introduction, then consider:

The Western Painted Turtle

The common musk turtle

mud turtles

The red-eared slider turtle

Red-eared sliders are considered the friendliest of all turtle species. They are more active and can be obtained from more pet stores. Their habitats require the same care as aquariums. However, with a turtle’s longevity, you have more options to adjust your habitat to the right parameters. However, there are other disadvantages to consider:

Many turtle species require a specific diet.

If your pet ever needs medical attention, you need to call a vet who specializes in exotic pets.

Turtles have a very long lifespan. That’s over 30 years for the red-eared slider. This can be wonderful for some, but too much responsibility for others.

hamster

As an upgrade in size and temperament from gerbils, we have hamsters. These make great starter pets for kids and adorable college pets. This is due to their small size and uncomplicated cage or enclosure. They don’t require any special diet and you’ll find that they’re happy to entertain themselves when you’re busy.

However, they are very interactive pets. You should get lots of tunnels or toys. A hamster tolerates your absence for a day or so, but then feels lonely. This is good news for students who want a friend to cuddle or play with while they do homework. They are also very affectionate once properly socialized.

Even better, they can be toilet trained. Hamsters naturally choose a corner of their cage to do their business. All you have to do is place a container of substrate in that spot and stop picking up droppings.

Unlike most of the pets on this list, hamsters have short lifespans. At 2-3 years old, this can be a problem for some pet owners, but important for college students. You might want a pet for the duration of a degree, but not for decades.

lizard

Reptiles have their own aesthetic that can add life to any dorm room. For college students, find these lizards:

Don’t require much maintenance. They live in aquariums, need basic substrate and rarely eat.

. They live in aquariums, need basic substrate and rarely eat. Don’t have any special diets. Depending on the species, your lizard may be content with leafy greens and frozen bugs or pellets. If you want to offer a treat, you can find crickets or other live prey items at most pet stores.

. Depending on the species, your lizard may be content with leafy greens and frozen bugs or pellets. If you want to offer a treat, you can find crickets or other live prey items at most pet stores. Don’t need much space. Larger tanks are always better, but a 10-gallon tank will work for most lizards.

. Larger tanks are always better, but a 10-gallon tank will work for most lizards. Don’t need much cleaning. These are naturally clean animals that don’t need to be bathed or scrubbed. If the tank is properly maintained, they can be odorless.

What are the best lizards for college dorms?

One of the most popular lizard species is the bearded dragon. All bearded dragons have a “beard” located at the bottom of the throat. Along with their spiky scales and coloring, these species really resemble mythical creatures – only much smaller.

Although they are a fan favorite, they require the careful attention of a seasoned lizard owner. For beginners, you can consider the following instead:

leopard gecko

Fat Tailed Gecko

Crested Gecko.

These geckos are more interactive, resilient, and less picky about food. They are much smaller than bearded dragons and can also be suitable for students with limited space.

chinchilla

For a more exotic flair (and a love of snuggling), you can select the chinchilla. Chinchillas make great college dorm pets because they:

small . They often fit in the palm of your hand

. They often fit in the palm of your hand Need a little living space. As long as they can periodically explore outside, they won’t mind a shelf-sized enclosure.

. As long as they can periodically explore outside, they won’t mind a shelf-sized enclosure. Love playing with their human owners. You will see your chinchilla snuggling around your neck, ruffling up your clothes and playing with your fingers.

. You will see your chinchilla snuggling around your neck, ruffling up your clothes and playing with your fingers. Come in many colors. In fact, chinchillas have more than 30 different color variations. While the exotic colors are more expensive, you’re not limited to a few basic shades.

. In fact, chinchillas have more than 30 different color variations. While the exotic colors are more expensive, you’re not limited to a few basic shades. self-cleaning Chinchillas do not need water baths. Instead, they dust themselves when they get the right ash or sand.

However, chinchillas have disadvantages that may deter students.

Expensive . As an exotic pet, you may have trouble finding one, especially for less than a few hundred dollars.

. As an exotic pet, you may have trouble finding one, especially for less than a few hundred dollars. throw dust. Because of the pollination process, you never need to bathe a chinchilla. It does mean, however, that they could cover your shelf or desk in ash or sand.

Because of the pollination process, you never need to bathe a chinchilla. It does mean, however, that they could cover your shelf or desk in ash or sand. require attention. If kept in pairs, you need a larger enclosure with lots of toys. If kept alone, you need to take the chinchilla out regularly, play with it for a long time and avoid ignoring it.

Chinchillas are the best pets for those who want a small, cute and very affectionate pet. If you are willing to invest the time and money, you will be rewarded.

snakes

Much like other reptiles like lizards, snakes are low maintenance. If you want a less active pet than a gecko, snakes are perfect.

Don’t need strict feeding times. Some species only need to be fed twice a week, once every 3 to 5 days. This is great for college students who travel home often or have exam weeks.

. Some species only need to be fed twice a week, once every 3 to 5 days. This is great for college students who travel home often or have exam weeks. Diets are uncomplicated. Your snake will likely appreciate frozen mice, which are easy to find at pet stores. If you want to see an exciting hunt, you can also treat it to live prey.

. Your snake will likely appreciate frozen mice, which are easy to find at pet stores. If you want to see an exciting hunt, you can also treat it to live prey. Don’t need attention Unlike most animals, snakes are fine when left alone for long periods of time. Snakes don’t like physical contact, and it’s best to touch your snake 1 to 3 times a week.

. Unlike most animals, snakes are fine when left alone for long periods of time. Snakes don’t like physical contact, and it’s best to touch your snake 1 to 3 times a week. Calm. If you have roommates, comfort yourself. Snakes rarely make any noise, even at night when they are active.

What are the best queues for college students?

A common choice for snake owners is the ball python. This species is docile and has no special needs. However, this can be an extreme choice for beginners. Pythons are sensitive to stress, causing them to thrash, be picky about food, and lose their appetite. For new snake owners, consider the following:

corn snakes

The rose boa

The Kenyan sand boa.

These are smaller than most snakes and have an even temperament. They also have very basic food and shelter requirements.

Hedgehog

Like chinchillas, hedgehogs are exotic pets known for their cuteness. They are best known for rolling into a spiked ball when startled. Owners may be fascinated as they scurry, roll, or swim. Hedgehogs make good low-maintenance pets for busy students because they:

Need a simple case. A simple cage, some toys, a shelter, and an exercise bike are great.

. A simple cage, some toys, a shelter, and an exercise bike are great. Don’t need much company. You don’t have to buy multiple hedges to keep them happy.

. You don’t have to buy multiple hedges to keep them happy. No complicated diets. Most will be happy with pellets and frozen bugs.

Most will be happy with pellets and frozen bugs. Can move in its cage. With a good balance bike, hedgehogs stay healthy and alert. They don’t need to be taken out too often or allowed to roam free.

With a good balance bike, hedgehogs stay healthy and alert. They don’t need to be taken out too often or allowed to roam free. Tender. Hedgehogs are difficult to socialize and require semi-frequent handling from their owners. However, when raised properly, they have been known to snuggle and play small games.

Hedgehogs are difficult to socialize and require semi-frequent handling from their owners. However, when raised properly, they have been known to snuggle and play small games. Clean. Like chinchillas, hedgehogs bathe in a dust bath.

Of all the species, the African pygmy hedgehog is the most common as a pet. It is the smallest, has the most even temperament, and is more readily available at pet stores. Just note that this species tends to be shy. So if you want an interactive pet, that’s great. If you don’t have the time to play with it all the time, you may need another animal.

birds

If you don’t have a lot of floor space, why not get a pet that can fly? All good habitats are tall, but bird cages go up instead of to the sides.

Birds are highly intelligent creatures. They can be trained to solve and even imitate problems. In fact, birds can rival human intelligence.

A study published in Scientific Reports measured the visual memory of African gray parrots and compared it to children and Harvard students. The parrot performed better than the children.

Birds are great for those who want a social pet. From small finches to large parrots, they enjoy attention and play.

What are the best birds for college students?

Good beginner styles are:

canaries

Budgies (Parakeets)

cockatiels

finches

As a rule, these species are small, quickly warm to their owners, and in addition, they are easy to care for. While parrots can be more exciting and interactive, many college dorms don’t allow them. They also take a lot of time that a student may not have.

Instead, canaries and finches make very independent pets. When given an enrichment in their cage, they will happily sing and flutter around for your entertainment.

Cockatiels can train you to sit on your finger or shoulder, imitate words, or play games. Just beware that cockatiels offer the most personality but can be loud if not properly trained.

Can you bring small pets to college?

As a rule of thumb, most colleges do not allow pets on campus. It’s not that colleges hate pets. Rather, they must comply with health and safety regulations. As any responsible pet owner knows, pets can transmit diseases if not cared for properly. Different colleges have different policies. Be sure to inquire about the rules of your dormitory.

Most colleges do not allow cats and dogs.

Dormitories are more forgiving of small animals like fish and hamsters.

Some colleges only allow animals in certain housing facilities.

Other colleges even partner with local animal shelters to accommodate students with pets.

Of course, choosing a college based on its pet policy is not the most responsible choice. If your campus doesn’t allow pets, you can get around this by:

Rent a house with friends

Find an off-campus apartment that allows pets

If off-campus life isn’t possible, you can still bring pets into your life. Perhaps your campus allows the family dog ​​to visit as long as it is on a leash. Volunteering at animal shelters is always a good choice for both you and the shelter.

When choosing a pet for college, start small and simple. You don’t just get a companion – you get a friend. You should make sure that his needs are met and that he is well cared for.