Species:
Phodopus campbelli
Other Names: sometimes also called the Djungarian hamster, mostly in America (in Russia, the name Djungarian is more often applied to the winter white russian hamster).
Expected Life Span:
1.5 - 2 years.
Size:
A small round bodied hamster that reaches an adult size of about 4 inches (10 cm). This means they are small enough to squeeze through the bars on many hamster cages so an aquarium is a safer choice for housing.
Behavior and Temperament:
Dwarf Russian Campbell's hamsters are nocturnal but may be active for short times during the day too. They make good pets, but they have a bit of a reputation for nipping if feeling threatened. Because they are small and quick they can be a challenge to handle, especially for kids.
Social Characteristics:
Unlike Syrian hamsters, dwarf Russian Campbells hamsters are social with their own species and can be kept in same sex pairs or groupings, but usually only if they are introduced at a young age. It is not a good idea to introduce adults or new hamsters to a group. Occasionally hamsters that were raised together may even have to be separated.
Appearance:
Dwarf Russian Campbell's hamsters normally have grey-brown fur on their backs with a darker dorsal strip along the center of the back. The fur changes to a creamy color on the sides and whiter on the belly. However, selective breeding techniqes have produced Campbells hamsters in a wide variety of coat colors and patterns. Campbells hamsters are also noted for having furred feet.
Notes about Care:
Basic care is like that of other hamsters. As mentioned above, a wire hamster cage may not be escape proof so an aquarium or other solid sided cage with a ventilated but secure top is preferable. Avoid cedar or pine wood shavings, and keep cages well cleaned though to prevent ammonia build-up from accumulated urine as ventilation is diminished with solid sided housing. Feed a good quality hamster food supplemented with small amounts of fresh foods. See Hamster Care for more detail.