Biting

Gerbil behavior-  biting


One of the reasons gerbils are great pets is that they rarely if ever bite.  I have never been bitten by a gerbil due to aggression.  (Once one of them was trying to bite another gerbil and I was in the way,  but obviously that wasn't because she was temperamental or anything)  
However,  occasionally,  there will be a gerbil that bites.  Its very uncommon for a gerbil to be biting simply due to being aggressive,  usually its because they've been provoked.
If a gerbil is very stressed,  scared,  or in pain,  etc.,  they might bite.  In this case,  its best to leave your hand in for a few more moments,  but leave the gerbil alone.  After a few moments,  remove your hand quietly and leave the gerbil be.
If,  however,  you have a gerbil that bites consistently,  you should react differently.
Whenever the gerbil bites you,  do not remove your hand.  Do not do anything to further stress the gerbil,  but also do not give them what they want by taking out your hands.  If you do,  they will only bite more.
Also,  when they bite you,  say "No" firmly,  as well as nudging them away carefully.  If they don't seem discouraged by this,  try making a "Psst!" sound while nudging them.

Finally,  note that there is a difference between biting,  nipping,  and nibbling.  While nibbling doesn't hurt,  and nipping doesn't draw blood,  biting is both!  It will hurt,  and it will draw blood.  When a gerbil bites,  they've had enough.  And if they are doing it consistently,  you've either gotten one of the few bad-tempered gerbils out there,  or the gerbil is being constantly stressed.
Always remember to be patient with your gerbils! 
For information on nipping,  click here.   For information on nibbling, click here.