The price of hamsters has tripled in China after the start of the Year of the Rat.The animals are considered lucky - and more acceptable pets than rats - since the Chinese New Year.
The Chinese word for rat, laoshu, covers a variety of animals that can include kangaroo rats, hamsters and moles.
Pet shops have been selling out even at comparatively high prices of 30 yuan (more than £2) per hamster.
The Xinhua news agency identified hamsters as having a better image than rats or mice, and more companionable.
Meanwhile, Nanning Zoo in southern China has been importing rat-like creatures from around the world in a tribute to the new year.
According to state media, its collection now includes kangaroo rats, hamsters, moles, marmots, and flying squirrels. (Xinhua)
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