Chinese Hamsters

CHINESE HAMSTERS

Family: Cricetidae 

Genus: Cricetulus 

Gestation: 23-30 days

The Chinese Hamster (Cricetulus griseus) comes from the desert areas of Mongolia and Northern China. Their average size is 3-4 inches. They are unique because of their tails, which are unusually long for a hamster. They actually resemble a mouse, and have a long slender body. They are not technically Dwarf hamsters, although many refer to them as Dwarf hamsters because of their small size.


Chinese hamsters are generally dark brown or dark grey in color, with a dark stripe going down their spine. These cute animals usually have a calm demeanor. They can be fast moving, but they rarely bite. They are shy animals, and are not always very active when handled, but are fun to observe as they go about their routines inside their cage.


These kinds of hamsters are quite aggressive especially if it is new to its environment. You may need to separate it at first because it may quarrel other hamsters in sight or in territory.  To be safe, separate Chinese Hamsters from others then group them if they give out no sign of aggression .


Their average lifespan is 2-3 years.