How Many Types of Hamsters are There in the World?
Although the term “hamster” refers to about 19 species of small rodents, there are only about five found in the pet market. Below is a list of the most common types found as pets:
- Syrian hamster
- Roborovski hamster
- Chinese hamster
- Campbell’s Dwarf hamster
- Winter White Russian dwarf hamster
Syrian Hamster
The Syrian hamster (often called Golden hamster) is the most common species of hamster used as pet.
Why is it so popular? Well, it has a good size (not too small), it’s cute, and it’s more social and curious than the other types.
Normal adults are 5-7 inches long (13-18 cm) and weigh around 120-125 g. In the wild they live for 2-3 years, but as pets they can become up to 4 years old (when given a healthy and well-balanced diet).
The original color of Syrian hamsters was a mix of gold, brown and black, but nowadays they come in all sorts of patterns and color variations.
An adult Syrian hamster can’t share cage with another, because they are very territorial. They will fight furiously, sometimes even to the death. So make sure your little friend gets to live alone (in a cage suitable for Syrian hamsters).
Pups must be separated from mothers and siblings before they are sexually mature. Four weeks is a good rule of thumb. Litters normally consist of 8-10 pups.
Roborovski Hamster
The Roborovski hamster (Robo) is relatively small. Adults are only 1.8-2 inches (4.5-5 cm) in length and 20-25 g in weight.
The fur is sand-colored, and they have white spots just above the eyes and a white belly. However, there are ten variations of the Robo, all with slightly different characteristics.
Robos usually live for around three years, and their average litter size is six pups.
Chinese Hamster
The Chinese hamster has a longer and thinner body, and a longer tail, than the other four species that are used as pets.
Adults are around 3.2-5 inches (8.2-12.7 cm) long, and normally weigh 30-45 g. The average life expectancy is 1½ – 2 years.
Brown with a black stripe along the back is the most common color, although it also exists in two other variations.
Chinese hamsters are popular to keep as pets thanks to their calm and gentle behaviour (once tamed).
Campbell’s Dwarf Hamster
Campbell’s dwarf hamster is closely related to the Winter white Russian dwarf hamster.
An adult is usually around 3.9-4.7 inches (10-12 cm) long and weighs somewhere in the region of 30-45 g.
Their life expectancy is 1-2.5 years, depending on diet and the season they are born. Those born during summer seem to live longer.
When living as pets, they get four to six pups per litter. In the wild, the average is eight.
A good thing about Campbell’s dwarf hamster is that they are sociable enough to be able to live both by themselves and in groups.
Winter White Russian Dwarf Hamster
The Winter white Russian dwarf hamster (also known as the Djungarian hamster) is a short and almost ball-sized hamster that can withstand very low temperatures.
It has a grey stripe along the spine, and a dark fur that turns white during winter. However, when living as pet the fur doesn’t always change in color.
Winter whites are normally 3-4 inches (8-10 cm) in length, and around 30-45 g in weight,
Normal life expectancy in captivity is 1-3 years, and only one year in the wild.
FAQs
How many different types of hamsters are there?
There are five commonly kept pet hamster species. However, there are over 20 recognized species of hamsters in the wild.
What are the most common types of pet hamsters?
The five most popular pet hamster species are:
Syrian Hamster (Golden Hamster or Teddy Bear Hamster): The largest and most popular pet hamster. Known for being solitary and prone to biting if housed together.
Dwarf Campbell’s Russian Hamster: A small, social hamster that can sometimes live in same-sex pairs or groups if introduced properly at a young age.
Dwarf Winter White Hamster: Similar in size and appearance to the Campbell’s hamster, but with a calmer temperament. Also potentially suitable for group housing with careful introductions.
Roborovski Hamster (Robo Dwarf Hamster): The smallest hamster species, known for its speed and agility. Best kept in pairs or small groups as they are very social.
Chinese Hamster: Slightly larger than the dwarf hamsters, with a longer tail. Can be kept alone or in pairs, but bonding can be challenging.
Are there other types of hamsters besides the common pet species?
Yes, there are many other hamster species found in the wild, but they are not typically kept as pets. These include the Turkish Hamster, Romanian Hamster, and Eversmann’s Hamster, among others.
How can I tell the difference between the different types of hamsters?
Each hamster species has unique physical characteristics:
Size: Syrian hamsters are significantly larger than the dwarf species.
Color: Different species come in various color variations.
Tail Length: Chinese hamsters have noticeably longer tails compared to other pet species.
Body Shape: Roborovski hamsters have a more compact and rounded body shape.
What type of hamster is right for me?
The best hamster species for you depends on your preferences and lifestyle. Consider factors like:
Space requirements: Syrian hamsters need larger cages than dwarf species.
Activity level: Roborovski hamsters are very active and require ample space for exercise.
Temperament: Some species are more prone to biting than others.
Social needs: Some hamsters thrive in groups, while others prefer solitary living.
Researching different hamster species thoroughly before choosing one is crucial to ensure you can provide a suitable environment and meet their specific needs.