Hamsters

5 Different Types of Hamster

Just like with other animals, hamsters come in several different types. Each of these types has slightly different behavioral traits and social interaction needs.

Syrian Hamster

The Syrian hamster is the most well known type of hamster, and the most popular as well. Syrian hamsters typically like to be alone in their cage, without the company of another hamster. If two hamsters are housed in the same cage, they may become aggressive. Syrian hamsters include the subtypes of golden hamsters, teddy bear hamsters, fancy hamsters and standard hamsters. Typically, the female Syrian hamster is a bit larger than the male.

Dwarf Winter White Russian Hamster

Also sometimes called the Djungarian Dwarf Hamster, Dwarf Winter White Russian hamsters are said to have their origins in Siberia. These hamsters may be housed in groups, since they sometimes group up in the wild. However, they associate best when grouped with hamsters of the same gender, and hamsters who they have been acquainted with since birth. If kept outside, this type of hamster grows a fluffy white coat, which is their natural camouflage in the wild.

Dwarf Campbells Russian Hamster

Though related to White Russian Hamsters, the Dwarf Campbell’s Russian Hamster has a few differences. Most notably, Dwarf Campbell hamsters have a thicker coat, which gives them the false appearance of being slightly larger. Just like Dwarf White Russian hamsters, Campbell hamsters may also live in groups of the same gender.

Roborovski Hamster

Also a Dwarf type of hamster, the Roborovski hamster has a characteristically short tail common for Dwarf hamster breeds. However, Roborovski hamsters have a noticeable brownish yellow coloring, as well as striking whiskers. In comparison to other Dwarf hamsters, the Roborovski hamster is the smallest breed. Roborovski hamsters are not very well-known, and tend to bear very few young.

Chinese Hamster

Chinese hamsters have typically dark ears, as well as a coat that some say resembles the fur of a mouse. The belly of the Chinese hamster is usually light gray, and a dark brown dorsal stripe runs down the length of the back. Chinese hamsters are very gentle, though may become aggressive when scared or when they feel threatened. Most Chinese hamsters live from 1 to 2 years, though this is dependent on how well they are cared for. As a general average, most Chinese hamsters grow from 10 to 12 centimeters in length.

Sean Green

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Sean Green

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