How difficult is it to keep Winter White Hamster?

Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.

What is the lifespan of Winter White Hamster?

The average lifespan of Winter White Hamster is 1.5-2 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.

How large does Winter White Hamster get?

Winter White Hamster typically reaches 7-10cm / 30-45g as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.

What should I feed Winter White Hamster?

Winter White Hamster feeds on: Hamster pellets, seeds, vegetables. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.

What is the typical price for Winter White Hamster?

The price of Winter White Hamster varies significantly depending on variety, age, sex, and the individual animal's condition. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Winter White Hamster

Beginner

Phodopus sungorus

Djungarian subspecies that often turns entirely white in winter. Beautiful pearl white color with a gentle disposition.

Difficulty

Beginner

Temperature

18〜26℃

Lifespan

1.5-2 years

Size

7-10cm / 30-45g

Humidity

40〜60%

Diet

Hamster pellets, seeds, vegetables

About

The winter white dwarf hamster (Phodopus sungorus), also called the Siberian hamster or Djungarian hamster in some regions, is native to the grassland steppes of western Siberia and Kazakhstan. Their most distinctive trait is a seasonal coat change: in response to decreasing daylight hours, their summer coat (typically gray or slate-colored) gradually transitions to near-white in winter—a camouflage adaptation to snowy environments. Several color mutations have been selectively bred, including sapphire and pearl. The species can be distinguished from the closely related Djungarian hamster (P. sungorus) by a thin white border around the ears. Winter whites tend to be slightly calmer than other dwarf species and may tolerate same-sex companionship, though pairing must be monitored carefully. Housing requires a cage of at least 40 cm width with a 15 cm wheel. Sugary foods must be avoided due to diabetes susceptibility.

Lifespan of the Winter White Hamster

The Winter White Hamster lives 1.5-2 years.

Lifespan is 1.5–2 years.

Size of the Winter White Hamster

The Winter White Hamster grows to 7-10cm / 30-45g.

Adults measure 7–10 cm and weigh 30–45 g.

Basic Info

Origin

western Siberia and Kazakhstan

Lifespan

1.5-2 years

Size

7-10cm / 30-45g

Temperature

Care Specifications

Solitary

Sources: Dwarf hamster (Phodopus) same-sex aggression at maturity

Morphs (Varieties)

Pearl White/Winter White hamster = color variation of Phodopus sungorus (same species as djungarian). Sapphire and pearl are recessive.

RecessiveVisual only with two copies; one copy = het (carrier).

SapphirePearl

DominantVisual with a single copy; no distinct super form.

Normal (wild type)

Sources: Winter white dwarf hamster (Wikipedia)

A curated selection of notable morphs. Inheritance modes are a breeding-planning guide; actual appearance varies with combos.

References & Sources

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.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Phodopus sungorus (Pallas, 1773)

Authority databases: GBIF

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listed

Sources: CITES Appendices

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.