gerbils/hamsters

Question
I am planning on getting either 2 gerbils or 2 hamsters for my girls.  Is one choice better than the other--especially with young children (10 and 6)?  Is it ok to keep 2 in the cage together?  Which is better to handle and play with?  Thanks!

Answer
Hey, ok I can't really tell you which one would be a better choice, that has to be your decision, but I will tell you some things about both. Hamsters are nocturnal, so if you want an animal who is fun to watch, a gerbil is the better choice. Gerbils are harder to catch from the cage and more difficult to keep contained in your hand, but bite less frequently than hamsters (when handled correctly). Two gerbils, either two male or two females get along fine (I would recommend two females, because they are less territorial, though two males get along ok too). Hamsters, if bought when they are babies are sometimes fine, but will sometimes fight if you have two in the cage. Most Hamsters can run on the floor, but gerbils are too fast for that. To play with a hamster, you would have to wake them up (unless you handle them at night) which sometimes makes them cranky and bite a little, and gerbils are fine any time of the day or night. They are cyclic, which means they sleep and are awake through alternating periods during the day and night. If you get either one, I am sure they will work out fine! I hope I have helped. Good Luck!! ~Allison