flipping backwards

Question
I often see funny videos of hamsters or gerbils flipping backwards off of something elevated and wondered why they did that. I could not find anything online to tell me why. I am assuming they are bored.

Answer
Hi Nichole

I've never actually witnessed this before with any of my hamsters/gerbils but I have seen this on various TV programmes.  I wonder if whoever is making the video has managed to train them somehow to perform a trick.  This certainly isn't normal behavior.

Sorry I can't be more help - I'd be interested to know if you find anyone with an explanation!

Regards