Nipping

Gerbil behavior-  Nipping


Nipping,  though still infrequent,  is more common in gerbils then biting.  A nip will hurt,  but it won't draw blood.  Gerbils nip as a "warning".  Its sort of their way of saying, "Please stop" while biting would be "Back off!".  
If your gerbils are nipping,  it could be due to temperament or due to stress in their environment.  The first of which isn't as common.
When your gerbil nips,  say "No"  or "Psst!" while nudging them away carefully.  Do not remove your hand when they nip,  but do stop doing whatever it is that may be bothering them. (Chasing them around the tank etc.)  Wait at least thirty seconds before taking your hand out.  Do not try to "calm them down" by giving them a treat-  this will encourage the nipping.
As I said,  nipping will hurt,  but not draw blood as biting will.  For more information on biting,  click here.  For information on nibbling,  click here.