Syrians are relatively easier to handle compared to the smaller dwarf hamsters as they are both bigger and tend to be move more slowly. However, they also escape artists and can squirm and run out of their owner's hands.

The best start to handling a hamster is to get a friendly hamster from the very beginning.

To pick up your hamster:

Cup the hamster, preferably with both hands. They might try to jump off and so do be careful of that. Hold them over a table or their tank so that if they do fall, they won't run away or get hurt.

 Ladder Trick

To carry a hamster that is timid, first put a hamster ladder or other toy in the cage for him/her to climb up to. Slowly lift up hamster and ladder out of the cage.

Useful links

A page on Handling Hamsters at the Association of Pet Care Counsellors