The European field hamster shares the fate of many wild animals in our cultural landscape. Once widespread and even fought against as a pest, it is now on the brink of extinction. This rodent is a classic follower of human culture, having adapted well to agricultural fields over centuries. In addition to farmers and hamster catchers, scientists have also repeatedly engaged with this species. The two authors demonstrate how much attitudes towards a species can change, especially one that has played a role in agriculture for nearly 2000 years. This book brings the knowledge accumulated since the publication of the first NBB monograph in 1952 up to date and expands it with numerous aspects of species and nature conservation. This interesting development and its associated consequences for animals, humans, and the environment are discussed.