syrien hamster (exuse the spelling) sniff biteing

Question
My hamster bit me and held on gently, it didn't hurt. My mum told me he was smelling me to see what I am. Is this right?

Answer
Hi Emily

Thanks for your question. Your mum is correct. Hamsters have very bad eyesight and therefore rely on other senses. If they aren't sure about something they tend to scape their teeth against it to 'taste it'. Be careful if your hamster does this to you as once they have 'tasted' if they like it they will then bite!

Regards
Sheila