Siberian hamster (Phodopus sungorus)

The Siberian hamster (Phodopus sungorus) is native to Kazakistan, south-west Siberia, Manchuria and Mongolia. Its natural habitat is formed of steppes and prairies in which it digs deep, underground burrows to protect itself against predators and the harsh winter climate.

Unlike the Russian (Campbell) hamster, which it resembles strongly, the Siberian hamster changes colour during the winter months. Its coat becomes white, explaining why this animal is called the Winter White hamster in English-speaking countries. The change in coat colour is probably a form of camouflage, helping the hamsters to hide in the white, winter snow and to protect themselves from predators. The coat change is stimulated by the decrease in daylight hours that occurs in the winter and by the lowering in temperature.

The physical characteristics of the Siberian hamster are very similar to those of the Russian hamster, although the former can reach a slightly larger size.

Physiological parameters

Reproductive parameters