Cricetus is a genus of rodents commonly known as hamsters. These small mammals are native to parts of Europe and Asia, particularly found in countries like Turkey and Ukraine. They are characterized by their stout bodies, short tails, and cheek pouches, which they use to store food. The most well-known species within this genus is the European hamster (Cricetus cricetus), which is primarily nocturnal and herbivorous. These animals typically live in burrows and are known for their ability to hoard food, especially seeds and grains, to survive during the winter months.