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Harrington's gerbil (Taterillus harringtoni) as a pet
The Harrington's gerbil (Taterillus harringtoni) is a gerbil-like species native to drier regions. This animal is primarily kept as a viewing animal : digging, foraging, sand bathing, and creating "routes" through its enclosure are natural behaviors. This species is classified as a pet, meaning it may be kept as a pet. DRD Rodent Shop® has been a specialist since 2011 and is happy to help you with practical basic furnishing that works.
Directly to the Mouse shop (useful for furnishing & basics):Mouse (all) · Mouse cages & enclosures · Mouse ground covering · Mouse food
Character & activity
Harrington's gerbils are alert and highly responsive to change. A quiet location (not right next to speakers or a busy walkway) and a predictable routine are helpful. Expect an animal with whom you can build rapport through quiet presence , feeding, and observation.
Accommodation (terrarium) & furnishings
A glass tank/terrarium is often the most practical choice, as it allows for deep substrate and tunnels remain more stable. Ideally, choose a tank with ample substrate, a sturdy lid, and good ventilation.
Setting up tips: Place heavier items (like houses/platforms) on the ground, surrounded by bedding. Use multiple hiding places and a distinct nesting area. For inspiration, see: Basic mouse setup – checklist & shopping list .
Digging bottom & nest
This is a species where a deep, well-constructed digging surface really makes a difference. Combine ground cover with textured material (e.g., hay/straw) and provide nesting material to create a sheltered nesting zone.
Sand bath
Many gerbils like to use a sand bath as a permanent place to roll and support grooming. Choose a stable sandbox and place it in a "fixed corner." Handy: Sandboxes for rodents .
Power supply
Basically, a good seed/basic diet works, with clever variation through herbs and natural forage items. Many keepers also occasionally feed a suitable protein source (e.g., insect snacks) as part of the variety. Make feeding fun by hiding (some of) the food.
Keep together
In practice, this species is often kept solitarily . Co-housing adult animals often creates tension, as territorial behavior can occur. If you do want to work with more than one animal, do so only with animals that have demonstrably grown up together and have a spacious, well-designed enclosure.
Harrington's Gerbil Checklist (Quick, Good Basic)
- ✓ Terrarium/glass container with sturdy, escape-proof lid and good ventilation.
- ✓ Deep, tunnel-resistant digging bottom + clear nesting zone.
- ✓ Sand bath in a fixed corner + at least one extra hiding place.
- ✓ Foraging enrichment (hidden food), gnawing material and multiple routes.
- ✓ Spot clean daily; refresh periodically in parts, not all at once.
Maintenance & hygiene
Remove wet spots and leftover food daily. Keep the sand bath clean by sifting out/replacing soiled parts. It's best to partially replace the bedding so the surrounding area remains recognizable. Check the lid, rims, and furnishings weekly for wear and tear.
Safety & points of attention
- ✓ Place the enclosure in a draught-free place at a stable temperature; avoid rapid temperature fluctuations.
- ✓ Use a closing lid/lock (fast + bouncy = faster escape than you think).
- ✓ Place heavy items on the bottom so that tunnels cannot collapse due to weight.
- ✓ Always wash your hands after contact and after cleaning: a pleasant standard hygiene routine for rodents.
Useful shopping links (Mouse categories)
Accommodation: Mouse cages & enclosures
Digging bottom & nest: Ground cover · Nesting material
Hiding places & routes: Houses · Tunnels · Platforms & ladders
Enrichment: Play & foraging · Rodent material
Food & Variety: Mouse Food · Hay, Herbs & Seeds · Snacks
Practical: Drinking bottles & water bowls · Food bowls · Cage accessories
FAQ – Harrington's gerbil
Is this a stuffed animal?
Usually not. This is primarily a look-alike: you build trust with calmness, routine, and rewards, and you enjoy the natural behavior in the enclosure.
What's more important: height or ground surface?
Ground surface and digging depth. A logically designed, deep "digger" often works better than a high climbing area.
Where do I start if I want to order the basics all at once?
Start withMouse (all) and combine: bedding + nest + house/tunnels + food. Questions? Check out our service page .
✓ Practical basics for digging, hiding and foraging
✓ Quick shopping links to mouse categories (useful for furnishing)
✓ Specialist since 2011: decision aid that works in practice
