pregnant hamster

Question
Hi Miss Heather,
  For Christmas I got a rescued, pregnant hamster. The pet store manager sad Holly will give birth very soon. It is averaged about 3-4 days! I was just wondering, how will I know she's in labor? I've had a pregnant hamster before, but wasn't there for the birth...
                                         Thanks,
                                             Alyssa

Answer
It's hard to tell, but I would peek in on her every hour or so on gestation day 16. She should have her nest built, and she will be in it when she gives birth. When my hamsters have their babies, I always leave the room dimly lit and only check in sparingly. You want to make sure she isn't stressed out at all or she might eat the babies. Birth isn't as exciting as you may think. It's better to peek in and don't hover while she's doing it anyway.