The Golden Hamster

Nestlé “Wonders of the World” collectible trading card. A popular marketing campaign Nestlé did in the 1930s-1980s to rival those that came in bubble gum or cigarette packages.

Translation of text on the card below:

Pets – The Golden Hamster

This charming little animal, originally from Syria, was only introduced to France around 1930.

In the wild, the golden hamster lives in cereal fields and digs burrows with several rooms: the nest for its young, the resting room, and the stores of provisions. He spends much of his time looking for seeds. He carries them in his pouches, a sort of large pocket that he has on each side of his face, then places them in his lair. These provisions will allow him to eat when spring comes, when he wakes up after his long winter sleep.

In captivity, the golden hamster is a charming little companion. However, you should not rush him: he is easily frightened and defends himself by biting. In particular, you should not disturb a hamster when it is dozing during the day: this is the time when it rests, because it is rather nocturnal.

The golden hamster is easy to feed: seeds (oats, wheat and especially sunflower seeds), carrots, salad. He needs exercise, so it is advisable to put a small ladder or a turnstile in his cage. He will be able to have fun for hours and it is a real pleasure to watch him!