Gerbils, also known as desert rats, are adorable granivorous rodents belonging to the order of rodents. In the wild, they live in close-knit family groups, and as pets, they thrive best in the company of others. These small rodents are active both during the day and at night and have a life expectancy of 3 to 4 years. They grow to approximately 10 to 12 cm in length and weigh between 70 and 130 grams.