Source: Wikimedia Commons
Winter White Hamster
BeginnerPhodopus 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. Adults measure 7–10 cm and weigh 30–45 g. 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 is 1.5–3 years.
Basic Info
Origin
western Siberia and Kazakhstan
Lifespan
1.5-2 years
Size
7-10cm / 30-45g
Temperature
18〜26℃
Humidity
40〜60%
Diet
Hamster pellets, seeds, vegetables
Care Guide
Cage
Care Specifications
Solitary
Sources: Dwarf hamster (Phodopus) same-sex aggression at maturity
Morphs (Varieties)
パールホワイト/ウィンターホワイトハムスター = Phodopus sungorus のカラー変異(djungarian と同種)。サファイア・パールは劣性。
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: br-choku editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
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.
Winter White Hamster Listings
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