Quote Originally Posted by Wenisrubber
Actually, gerbils are more known for NOT biting. They are extremely friendly and sociable. Most can be hand tamed. I know mine are completely comfortable with me picking them up, moving stuff around while they are there, etc. That's one of the things that appeals to people.
I have to agree! My three were very knowing from the minute I brought them home and have always been that way. They're quite happy to sniff and run all over your hand, and, even if they did attempt to bite you, they could never bite very hard as they have relatively small mouths and weak jawbones, unlike hamsters (also rats, although I've yet to meet a biting rat).

The only drawback to gerbils is, like chinchillas, they can get stressed if handled too much, if their companian dies, or if grabbed roughly they can shed their tails. I'm sure though, that a twelve year old will have no problem handling them, if it was someone 8 or under I would have said no way as they can be very quick to handle aswell.

Rats, I think, will always be the top rodent pet. They are dogs in smaller packages! Rats however do need a lot of space and interaction as they are intelligent animals and need to be kept stimulated and active. If you ever have any questions regarding rats, or gerbils, just send me a quick pm and I'll try to help. Whatever pet you decide on, I'm sure you will make a good choice