Re: nibbling or biting?
Rather than being defensive, it's more likely he's curious. You're a 'new' smell, and he doesn't know if you're food or not yet. Move your hand away if he opens his mouth, as he likely is going for a bite.
Also, instead of putting your hand in the cage for him to investigate, it would be better to do the 'tissue trick', where you put a tissue against your body somewhere to pick up your scent (such as your sleeve, although I also put some in my bed during the day), and then put the tissue in the cage for the hamster to get used to the smell. You can still put your hand in the cage, but limit it to things like spot cleaning and refilling the food bowl/water bottle. If you're brave, you can try offering treats to get your hammy used to the idea that your hand gives treats, but isn't one, but still be aware of his body language.
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