The Common hamster (Cricetus cricetus) is a large hamster distributed from Europe to Central Asia. It prefers soils that are deep enough for burrowing near human settlements such as steppes, grasslands, gardens, and farmland. Total length is 20–30 cm; it has cheek pouches and an abdominal scent gland. Omnivorous, it mainly eats plant material but also consumes insects and small animals. It is crepuscular to nocturnal and solitary; in winter it hibernates in a deep nest, lowering its body temperature and periodically waking every few days to consume stored food. Populations have declined sharply due to a combination of large-scale habitat loss, climate change, monoculture farming, light pollution, and other factors, and it is listed as Critically Endangered (IUCN Category I A). Conservation and reintroduction efforts are underway.