Russian Dwarf Hamsters

Not many people are aware of this, but there are 3 different species that are included in the Russian dwarf hamsters family. Of the 3 types of hamsters, the Roborovski hamster (or sometimes nicknamed the robo hamster) is the smallest, reaching only 4 to 5 centimeters in its adult size. On the other hand, the other 2 species, the Russian Winter White and the Campbell’s Russian dwarf hamster can reach a body growth of 8 to 10 centimeters.

Winter White Dwarf Hamsters

These little creatures are the most rare and hardest to find among the 3 species, and not all pet stores have a constant supply. Because of their friendly nature, pet stores usually sell the Winter White dwarf hamster in pairs. In the wild, the hamsters are prone to change their coloring from the normal dark grey to white in order to camouflage themselves and escape from predators in the winter. The process of their color change is prompted with the amount of natural sunlight they receive on a daily basis. Luckily, this amazing attribute also happens when they are in captivity so you can marvel at this amazing transformation during the winter season when there are shorter hours of daylight. Keep in mind that artificial light (for example from table lamps) will not induce the coloring change.

Campbell’s Russian Dwarf Hamsters

The most common and popular of the 3 species, the Campbell’s Russian dwarf hamsters originate from a region in Mongolia (called Djungaria). With their popularity, these little critters inspired breeders to become creative in their breeding process which increased the hamsters’ color combinations and markings. Some breeders who have perfected the creative reproduction method can produce beautiful hamster versions with spots, speckled, and even colors like cinnamon, black or even shades of blue or lilac.

Roborovski Dwarf Hamsters

Initially found in their natural habitats of the desert dunes of Western and Eastern regions of Mongolia and some parts of Northern China, Roboroski dwarf hamsters are smaller than the other 2 species, and can be a little more challenging to keep as pets because they are too small for most commercial wire cages. Another interesting fact is that they actually posses slightly longer legs which allow them to be faster runners (so make sure to keep a close eye on them when you take them out of their hamster housing!). These little ones are quite elegant in appearance, sporting a sandy brown coat with a slate grey undercoat. They are also extremely clean in nature and are constantly grooming themselves.

If you are considering getting a Russian dwarf hamster as a pet, remember that the species you choose has to be suitable for the type of home environment you can provide it. Also, all Russian dwarf hamsters need the same amount of care and love, so if you can provide this basic need, then you will be a happy hamster owner.