My hamster stays very still and doesn't move when we bring him in the backyard to play.

Question

is there something wrong with him or is he just scared of the outside?

Answer 1

That means your hamster is VERY scared.  They are trying to remain still to not attract predators and such.

I do not suggest that you take him outside.  If he is that terrified he definitely won't enjoy it.

Answer 2

Here's a clue- keep him inside.

Hamsters aren't meant to be taken outside when domestic.

Answer 3

That shows that your hamster does not like the outside. Tamed hamsters brought up in cages are mostly indoor animals and when you take them outdoors, the myriad of sounds and smells confuses them. What your hamster is doing is a behavior called "freezing" where he stands completely still. This means that he is either concentrating on a new sounds or scent or is very defensive and scared. Best would be to play with your hamster inside the house so that he does not get stressed out or scared too much which seems to be happening when you take him outdoors.

Answer 4

its scared.dont worry it willl get used to you if it sees your face daily.

Answer 5

Hamsters are prey animals, so open spaces (especially when they are not used to them) make them nervous. Because of this, your hamster is not going to enjoy being outside. Even wild hamsters don't like being in the open.

His instinct is not to move, because movement out in the open catches the attention of predators.

Answer 6

when you put a hamster in a whole new area to play the get frightened and confused. or it could be unaware of being outside.Maybe its just terrified

Answer 7

is it still alive?

Answer 8

My guess is he's probably scared.  He may also sense a predator (do you have neighbors with cats / dogs?).  He obviously doesn't like being outside - so I'd suggest you keep him in where he feels comfortable and safe.