Oh wow, I don't think I've seen a gerbil before - though I've defiantly heard of them! They are pretty cute :-)

When I was little I used to have a couple of mice. Important to make sure they have been sexed properly (as I'm sure you know). The females smell a whole heap less than the males. Think the boy mice release some kind of stinky hormone...

They are quite fun to play with. Nocturnal, though (most active at night) so make sure you oil the wheel or the squeaking will keep you up nights!