Why did my hamster bite me on the chin?

Question

I usually put my hamster on my shoulder because he likes to sit there. I know that's kind of weird...but anyway. I put him up to my shoulder and he bit my chin really hard! So hard, he was hanging on my chin by his teeth. I had to yank him off! Surprisingly, it didn't hurt me or leave a mark. He never bites me-at least not that hard. Is there a particular reason why he did this? Thanks.

Answer 1

no idea

for a new fun thing you can do with him put a baggy dressing gown on and let him walk down the sleeve - then he can't reach your chin

Answer 2

There are plenty of hypothetical answers to your question.

You might have had the scent of food on your chin from a previous meal, so your hammy thought he might take a nibble.

He may have been startled by something you didn't notice. Maybe he caught a toenail or his fur on your clothing or in your hair, and thought you were the culprit. Maybe a noise startled him, or an insect bit him.

A lot of things could cause a usually friendly rodent to suddenly bite, and those are the things I could think of.

If it happens more regularly, you might want to keep a closer eye on him and try to figure out the reason. If he's only done it once, try not to worry too much. :)