Lost hamsters near UF campus, Gainesville
Description
Friday around 4:40 PM I was at home with my two hamsters, Nibbles and Patches, when they somehow squeezed free from their enclosure and vanished. I chased them through the living room, but they darted toward the door and were gone before I could catch them. I searched the Gainesville area around the UF campus, especially near Turlington Plaza and Library West, hopeful I’d spot a tiny brown and white blur. They’re small and curious, and I’m anxious about them wandering alone. If you found a couple of tiny fluffballs somewhere near campus, please keep them safe and let me know through the site.
Approximate last-seen location
Pin shows an approximate area, not the exact spot — to protect privacy.
How to safely get your item back
A short checklist to protect you and the item during the handoff.
Verify the finder before meeting
- Ask them to describe a detail not shown in your listing, such as an engraving, scratch, or contents.
- Request a clear photo of the item from an angle you did not post.
- Do not pay any release, shipping, or storage fee.
- Do not share your full address until you have verified them.
Meet in a safe, public place
- Police stations, café entrances, transport hubs, and shop foyers all work.
- Meet during daylight hours where there is CCTV and foot traffic.
- Avoid private homes, car parks at night, or isolated locations.
Bring someone with you
- Tell a friend or family member where you are meeting and when.
- Share your live location with them during the handoff.
- For high-value items, consider contacting your local police station for advice first.
Keep communication on lostandfound.io
- Use the in-app message thread so there is a record if something goes wrong.
- Do not move to WhatsApp, SMS, or email until you have exchanged a verifying detail.
- Never share bank details, government ID numbers, or copies of your ID.