There
are several different species that comes under the umbrella of
the Russian
dwarf hamster.
These include the Campbell’s Russian
dwarf hamster and
the Winter White Russian
dwarf hamster and
the smallest of the three which is the Robo hamster. The Robo dwarf
hamster otherwise known as the Robrovski will grow to about 4 to 5
centimeters in size and is considered to be the smallest of the three
adults.
The
Winter White dwarf hamster is considered to be the rarest of
the three and they are extremely unique in the fact that in winter
the tiny creature’s fur coat will change color from a dark and dull
grey to a magnificent white. This is so they can camouflage
themselves from predators when the snow starts to fall. However if
they are only normally subjected to artificial lighting they will
most likely not change their color at all. It is the process of
natural sunlight that will achieve the color change. Once the shorter
days start you will find that they will begin to change color but
only if they are kept outside. Normally they are sold in pairs of the
same sex and are extremely friendly.
The
area of Djungaria in Mongolia is where the species Campbell’s
Russian dwarf hamsters originate. They are the most common of the
three species and unlike the Robo dwarf hamster, are commonly kept as
pets and are commonly found in pet stores. Due to the popularity of
this species and the breeding of them, it has resulted in many color
variations and their natural color, including cinnamon or black and
some have also been known to be in varying shades of blue or lilac.
Some are also known to have spotted markings.
Roboroski
or Robo dwarf hamsters also originated from areas in Mongolia, namely
the western and eastern regions. However they can also be found in
areas of Northern China. Famous for their tiny size, they do actually
in fact have longer legs than their cousins, the Winter and
Campbell’s’ dwarf hamsters. They are well known for their
extremely active nature and due their tiny size are often difficult
to keep as pets as they are known to escape from their cages. The
natural color of their coat is sandy brown although on closer
inspection you will notice their undercoat in grey in color.
Considered to be extremely clean animals they love grooming
themselves.
Dwarf
hamster care is absolutely vital if you are looking to own a Russian
dwarf hamster. They love to be active and are very energetic, so you
will need to consider allowing them time outside of the cage to get
some exercise. Many people purchase hamster balls for this purpose as
they are a safe way to keep your hamster contained, whilst allowing
them to have a good amount of exercise and a runaround. Along with
exercise and a diet of hamster food the Russian dwarf hamster is
relatively easy to care for and can make a wonderful pet.
So
no matter what type of hamster you have ( I must admit I do like the
Russian Dwarf hamster most of all) you will be able to care for and
look after him/her the best possible.