The Differences Between a Campbell’s Russian Dwarf Hamster and a Winter White Russian Dwarf Hamster
Are you able to tell the differences between the two? If not, here’s the answer. The Campbell’s Russian Dwarf Hamster is in the left image and the right is the Winter White Russian Dwarf Hamster. There are two major differences that can help you tell them apart. Notice that the dorsal stripe of the Winter White is darker and wider compared to the Campbell’s Russian. In addition, when looking at a Winter White, you can technically count 3 dark stripes; one on top of the back and the two famous dark “arches” on both sides of the Winter White that separates the darker color to the lighter underbelly as illustrated below:
*images credits to Thomas, 1905 , Pallas, 1773, and TheAnimalFiles*
Campbell’s Russian Dwarf Hamster
Scientific Name: Phodopus campbelli.
Coat Types: Normal (Short/Flat), Satin (Shiny Wet Greasy Appearance), Wavy (Long Wavy Hair/Curly Whiskers) and Rex (Curled short coat/Curly Whiskers).
Colors: Agouti, Argente, Opal, Albino, Black.
Markings: A narrow dark grey stripe on the back about 1 inch above the base of the tail.
Length: 3 to 4 inches.
Average Life Span: 1½ to 2 years.
Winter White Russian Hamster
Scientific Name: Phodopus sungorus.
Colors: Agouti, Sapphire Blue, Pearl.
Markings: Dark Dorsal stripe on back and dark side arches.
Length: 3 to 4 inches.
Average Life Span: 1½ to 2½ years.
Roborovski Hamster
Scientific Name: Phodopus roborovskii.
Colors: Agouti.
Markings: No stripe on the back and “eyebrow-like” white patches above each eye.
Length: 2 inches.
Average Life Span: 3 years.
Fun Fact: They are hypoallergenic!
Chinese Hamster
Scientific Name: Cricetulus griseus.
Colors: Grey-brown to dark brown back and ivory colored bellies.
Markings:Dark stripe on the back and a longer tail than a normal hamster.
Length: 4 to 5 inches.
Average Life Span: 2 to 3 years.