Habitrail facts for kids
Habitrail is a special brand of hamster cage made by the Hagen company. It uses clear plastic tubes and "houses" to create a fun home for hamsters. These parts can be connected in many ways, like building blocks, so you can design the cage however you like! It's also easy to take apart for cleaning.
Habitrail systems are designed to look like a hamster's natural home, which is often a series of underground tunnels or a "warren." The mascot for Habitrail is "Herbie the Hamster." Herbie even has his own video game called Habitrail Hamster Ball, which came out in 2005 for the PS2 and PC.
Large Habitrail setups can have different spots where your pet might choose to go to the bathroom. A good Habitrail should also have small holes and metal bars. These help air move through the cage, keeping it fresh for your hamster. However, Habitrail cages are not good for gerbils. Gerbils love to chew, and they might chew through the plastic edges of the cage.
Habitrail cages have smart features like a special bed area, a food dish, and a hamster wheel. These parts fit well into the small spaces. Because the cages are made of clear plastic, it's easy to watch your hamster as it scurries around the different pods and tunnels!
Habitrail in Everyday Language
The word "habitrail" has become so well-known that people sometimes use it to describe other things that look similar. For example, it can refer to enclosed walkways for people, especially those that are long and don't have many turns or choices of direction. You might see these connecting buildings like factories or offices.
The term "habitrail" is also used in the world of pinball machines! It's a common word for the raised wire paths that guide the pinball around the machine.
