When to start introducing a new hamster to a playpen?

[ToastieHammy]

Hi all!

New hamster owner here, just rescued a year old syrian girl called Summer and still trying to figure everything out!
I have only had her a week now and have just started the taming process. I have yet to be able to pick her up but she isn't afraid of standing on my hands and is doing very well so far! However, I have noticed she has a lot of pent-up energy which she releases by running around the cage like a rocket, so I thought it would be nice to give her something different to do by putting her into a playpen.
As I am not able to pick her up yet, is it worth trying to put her in a playpen by coaxing her into something I can pick her up in, or should I just wait until she's comfortable with being handled? Is a week too soon to take her out of the environment she's comfortable in?

Thanks!

[cypher]

I would start with the playpen now, as well as giving her lots more to do with plenty of things to explore in there you'll probably find she's more likely to get used to handling better out of the cage too.

[ToastieHammy]

Thank you for the advice, I will have a go today

[Drago]

I agree with Cypher, she sounds like she is ready now! To transport my hams to a playpen, I would typically just lift them up. However, if you have a bite or anxious ham, coaxing them into a cup or container may be easier for you. Congrats on your new little one! Best of luck

[flowerfairy]

I used a pringles tube to transport my chocolate fuffy hamster, Gopal (rip).



I am sure Summer will appreciate the play pen. All my syrians have done.