How to Catch a Gerbil on the Loose

As hard as you try, it's inevitable that one or more of your pet gerbils will eventually get loose. Catching gerbils is not as hard as it would seem. They are naturally curious, and unlike some other rodents, they will not barricade themselves in a small area and refuse to come out. As long as you have a little bit of patience, you should be able to catch your furry friends and put them back where they belong; here's how.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Carrot or gerbil food
• Tubing from a habitrail set or a jar with a lid

1. Shut the door to the room where the gerbil is loose in. This will keep its location within one area and you won't have to search the house for it. Put out any larger animals you have so you don't have to worry about your gerbil being hurt or eaten.

2. Get a piece of habitrail tubing and block off one end so there is only one way in and out of the tubing. If you do not have any tubing of that nature, you can use a large mayonnaise jar, juice can or a paper towel roll. It's best of have something a bit long with an opening small enough that you can cover or close quickly.

3. Put a small amount of food in the far end of the tubing or jar and place the tube near the location you know your gerbil to be in.

4. Step back a little ways and wait. If you are right next to the tube, your little friend won't come out as quickly. If possible, go around a small corner where you have a clear view of what is going.

5. Watch for your gerbil to go inside the tube or jar to get the food. When it does so, quickly step out of your hiding place and put your hand over the opening of the tubing or jar. You've got him!

Tips & Warnings

• You can use a cat or dog to locate the gerbil for you. They will be able to smell it long before you see or hear it. Just be careful, because the cat or dog is not thinking in the gerbil's best interest and will probably kill it or eat it if it can get to it.
• Do not tear things apart to get to your gerbil--he will come out on his own.