Winter White Dwarf Hamsters Pearl Picture from rikyhamstery.com The Winter White Dwarf hamster (Phodopus sungorus) is the largest species of dwarf hamster. They are very closely related to the Campbell's Dwarf but have rounder bodies with a shorter and less pointed snout. They also come in fewer colour variations and patterns making them easier to identify- with the 4 most popular being Agouti, Sapphire, Pearl and Merle. Winter White Dwarf's change colour in Winter with their coats lightening or turning pure white including the dorsal stripe. Agouti Picture from forum.lowyat.net Winter White Dwarf's suit new hamster owners well due to their calm temperament. Average life span: Around 2 years, although they can live longer Average length: 10-12 cm Average weight: 40-55g, although they can weigh anywhere in between 30-90g Sapphire Picture from www.aaahamsters.org Diseases they are prone to: Diabetes- as many Winter White Dwarf's have been bred with Campbell's Dwarf's (a species that is at risk). However, pure Winter White Dwarf's (that are sold with a pedigree certificate) are not at risk. Can they live in pairs/groups?: Yes, Winter White's are very social- although they can live alone and it is recommended to get a spare cage just in case of any fights. When owning groups of hamsters it is best to get even number groups, like is because hamsters like to bond in pairs- and so a bonded pair may not bond with another single hamster. Merle Picture from www.flickr.com Also known as... Siberian Hamster, Djungarian Hamster- these are not false names just alternative names that these hamsters go by. Winter White picture from www.pinterest.com Gem :) x