| Dwarf Campbells Russian Hamster (Phodopus campbelli) |
| The Dwarf Campbells Russian hamster is the most common species of dwarf russian hamsters and can often be found in pet stores. It is sometimes referred to as the Djungarien hamster or Syberian hamster, although both of these names are incorrect. The Dwarf Campbells Russian hamster has expandable cheek pouches in which it stores the food and bedding that it has collected. It has a stubby, hairless tail and short legs, but unlike the Syrian hamster this breed has furry paws. They are nocturnal but are active for short periods during the day. These hamsters are labelled dwarfs because they are much smaller than the Syrian hamster, only reaching 10-12 cm (4-5 in) in length when they are full grown (the females are usually smaller than the males). Because they are so small, they have been known to squeeze through the bars of regular hamster or mouse cages, making aquariums more appropriate. Also due to their small size, Dwarf Campbells Russian hamsters are harder to handle and can often slip out of one's grasp; to make matters worse, they are not as tolerent to rough or clumsy handling as the Syrian hamster and are more likely to nip or bite when annoyed. All in all, this hamster is not recommended for first time hamster owners, or to those who are nervous about being bitten. |
| The Dwarf Campbells Russian Hamster in Brief Country of Origin: Central Asia, Northern Russia, Mongolia and Northern China. Lifespan: 1½-2 years, although they have been known to live longer Size: 10-12 cm (4-5 in) Housing: Sociable: can live with others of the same species if introduced at a young age; preferably house in an aquarium Special Care/Facts: * When housed together, these hamsters will often squabble in order to establish an order of dominance. Their fights seldom result in injury; if a hamster does get injured as a result of a fight, it would be best to house the hamsters in separate cages. * Fruit and vegetables should be fed in small amounts. |
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