The Cricetus cricetus, commonly known as the European hamster, is a small rodent native to Europe and parts of Asia. It has a stout body, short legs, and a distinctive golden-brown fur with white underparts. This nocturnal animal primarily inhabits grasslands and agricultural fields, where it creates burrows for shelter and food storage. European hamsters are omnivorous, feeding on seeds, grains, and various plant materials. They play a crucial role in their ecosystem by helping to aerate the soil through their burrowing activities. Unfortunately, their populations have declined due to habitat loss and agricultural practices, leading to conservation efforts to protect them.