The Common Hamster (<i>Cricetus cricetus</i> [L.]); a Review¹

Abstract

ABSTRACT Taxonomy, distribution, biology, population dynamics, economic importance and control measures regarding Cricetus cricetus (L.) are reviewed on the basis of available data, including recent developments and some unpublished work. The common hamster is a significant pest in central and eastern Europe and, supposedly, modern agricultural technology provides favourable conditions for it. Besides field crop losses, other types of damage and hygienic hazards are also conspicuous when the hamster occurs at peak densities. At present, the best method of control is fumigation, e.g. the use of hydrogen phosphide. There is a lack of information about this hamster and more research is needed confirming its ethology, population dynamics and some methodological problems. Control techniques which are suitable for simultaneous application on large surfaces and which are innocuous to the environment are urgently needed.