
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Phodopus sungorus
Popular small hamster with a gentle temperament. Easy to tame and ideal for beginners. Some individuals develop a winter coat.
The Djungarian hamster (Phodopus sungorus), also called the Siberian hamster or striped dwarf hamster, is native to the wheat fields of Kazakhstan and the meadow-steppes of Mongolia and Siberia. A distinctive dark dorsal stripe runs along the spine, and the belly is white. In winter conditions, some individuals undergo a gradual coat change to near-white, a trait that distinguishes them from the closely related winter white hamster (P. campbelli). Compared to the Syrian hamster, Djungarians show slightly more tolerance for conspecifics, though same-sex pairs must still be monitored for aggression. Housing should include a cage of at least 40 cm width and a wheel no smaller than 15 cm in diameter. They are prone to diabetes mellitus, so sugary foods must be avoided. Other common issues include tumors and cheek-pouch prolapse.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Djungarian Hamster lives 1.5-2 years.
Lifespan is 1.5–2 years.
The Djungarian Hamster grows to 7-12cm / 30-45g.
Adults measure 7–12 cm and weigh 30–45 g.
Optimal temperature is 18–26 °C.
Origin
Kazakhstan, Mongolia, and Siberia
Sources: Dwarf hamster (Phodopus) same-sex aggression at maturity
Djungarian (Winter White) hamster Phodopus sungorus color mutations. Sapphire and Pearl are recessive (source: various hamster genetics).
Sources: Winter white dwarf hamster (Wikipedia)
A curated selection of notable morphs. Inheritance modes are a breeding-planning guide; actual appearance varies with combos.
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Phodopus sungorus (Pallas, 1773)
Authority databases: GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Sources: CITES Appendices
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Find listings for this species
Lifespan
1.5-2 years
Size
7-12cm / 30-45g
Temperature
18〜26℃
Humidity
40〜60%
Hamster pellets, seeds, vegetables
Cage 40cm+ wide. Exercise wheel 15cm+ diameter
20-25°C optimal. Avoid sudden temperature changes
Gentle and rarely bites. Can become hand-tame
House alone recommended. Watch portion sizes to prevent obesity
Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.
The average lifespan of Djungarian Hamster is 1.5-2 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Djungarian Hamster typically reaches 7-12cm / 30-45g as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Djungarian Hamster feeds on: Hamster pellets, seeds, vegetables. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Djungarian Hamster varies significantly depending on variety, age, sex, and the individual animal's condition. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 24, 2026