
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Phodopus roborovskii
The world's smallest hamster. Extremely fast and active, best enjoyed by watching. Shy but can be kept in groups.
The Roborovski hamster (Phodopus roborovskii) is the smallest of the commonly kept pet hamsters, native to the deserts and semi-arid steppes of China, Mongolia, and Russia. Their sandy-brown coat and distinctive white eyebrow-like markings make them easily identifiable. Extremely fast and agile, Roborovskis are better suited as display animals than for regular handling. They are nonetheless highly entertaining to observe, often running the equivalent of several marathons per night on their wheel. A wheel of at least 15 cm diameter is essential. A glass tank-style enclosure is recommended to prevent escapes. Diet consists of dwarf hamster pellets, seeds, and dried vegetables.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Roborovski Hamster lives 3-3.5 years.
Lifespan is 3–3.5 years.
The Roborovski Hamster grows to 4-5cm / 15-30g.
Adults measure only 4.5–5 cm and weigh 15–25 g.
They prefer dry conditions (40–50% humidity) and benefit from a sand bath area. Optimal temperature is 18–26 °C.
Origin
the deserts of Central Asia
Lifespan
Sources: Dwarf hamster (Phodopus) same-sex aggression at maturity
Roborovski hamster Phodopus roborovskii color variation. White-Faced (Husky) is the primary morph (recessive). This species has fewer morphs compared to other species.
Sources: Roborovski 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 roborovskii (Satunin, 1903)
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
3-3.5 years
Size
4-5cm / 15-30g
Temperature
18〜26℃
Humidity
40〜60%
Hamster pellets, seeds, dried vegetables
Wide floor area cage. Gap-proofing essential to prevent escape
Extremely active. Wheel essential — runs several km per night
Very shy and hard to handle. Best as a pet to watch
Fast escapers. Same-sex pairs can cohabitate
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The average lifespan of Roborovski Hamster is 3-3.5 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Roborovski Hamster typically reaches 4-5cm / 15-30g as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Roborovski Hamster feeds on: Hamster pellets, seeds, dried vegetables. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Roborovski 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