Page:The Golden Hamster Manual.djvu/55



The commercial producer of hamsters uses the same pens, feeding schedules, etc., as previously set forth. Before buying breeding stock, he will give most careful consideration to the following phases: Housing and pens, quality of breeding stock, dietary requirements, propagation, costs of production, likely markets In his shipping area, control of sex ratio in production, special feedings, production of super-litters, prevention of early discards, laboratory stock care and handling, pet and novelty production, beginners’ mistakes and how to avoid them. He will give thorough attention to all phases set forth in Parts V to IX in this book.

While the hsamter is primarily a laboratory animal, numerous other uses make him profitable to raise.

FUR: Hamster skin is too tender for fur use other than garment trim. For that, it is beautifully and delicately marked in its natural colors. Consult furriers for specific details.

PETS: Since the animals are both new and unique, pet and novelty production is profitable. Many of the larger pet shops handle hamsters when they can get them regularly from local or nearby producers or from satisfactory shippers. For production to meet this class, of sales, many of the rules previously given for production of choice breeding stock selections may be set aside to the degree accommodated to environment and purpose served by the animals, but looking well after those details essential to comfort and health.

NOVELTY: Hamsters are featured as novelties at carnivals, fairs, shows, etc.

FISH BAIT: Nest culls may be preserved in pint or quart jars containing formaldehyde, alcohol, salt brine or other suitable solution, or by freezing.

Immediately after a hard wind or driving rain you may doubtless find small, pre-feather age, dead sparrows or other small birds fallen from nests as storm casualties. These may be added to preserved hamster nest culls and used the same.

Preserved specimens may be packed in smaller 2 to 4 oz. jars as desired. These culls may be used for or sold for use as game fish baits.

The author does not recommend the use of live hamsters for fish bait. His main reason is respect for the feelings and interest of those persons who consider the hamster as a pet. But as a matter of scientific honesty, it should be said that it is difficult to conduct hamster swim tests and water chill tests on them in waters inhabited by game fish. The newly weaned hamster so resembles the mouse that the fish may be avoided only by conducting such tests in shallow places or runs not frequented by the game fish. Of course, If game fish are not present in waters used, hamster swim tests are among the most Interesting observations made on the creatures. They inflate their cheek