Introduction

There are approximately 90 species of gerbil but most kept as pets are either a Mongolian Gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus) or a derivative of a Mongolian. Therefore the examples included below are not strictly breeds but more of a selection of colours/types that are most commonly encountered. Further information can be found at the UK National Gerbil Society at http://www.gerbils.co.uk/.

Agouti Colours

  • Usually have a white belly and tri-coloured hairs. Usually grey near the skin followed by a yellow band and a black ticking at the furthest end of the hair. Eyes are usually black.

Self Colours

Colorpoint

Characterised by lighter bodies and darkened points. Gerbil fanciers often refer to this genetic mutation as "Burmese".

Standard Markings

  • Spotted - usually small white diamond on forehead and sometimes around neck. White markings do not go down to shoulders but stay on back.
  • Pied - usually small white diamond on forehead, around neck and down to shoulders and back.
  • Mottled - more white markings than Pied, extending to lower back. In heavily mottled gerbils it may often be hard to determine the base colour.

Other Species of Gerbil

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