Roborovski

Roborovski, or Roborovski dwarf hamster, Phodopus roborovskii, is a small mammal in the hamster family. Native to the deserts and semi-deserts of northern China, southern Mongolia, and adjacent Russia, it is the smallest species commonly kept as a pet, measuring about 4 to 5 cm in length and weighing roughly 20 to 30 grams.

Its coat is light sandy to grey with a pale underside, and it has a compact body and a short tail. It is renowned for its high activity and speed; in the wild it is mainly crepuscular, while in captivity it may be active at dawn and dusk and occasionally during the day. It is social and often kept in pairs or small groups when introduced properly, though individuals can be shy around people and may be nervous if handled roughly.

In captivity, Roborovski hamsters require a spacious cage with multiple hiding places, tunnels, and an exercise wheel. They benefit from enrichment such as tubes, climbing elements, and a hamster-safe sand bath for grooming. Avoid cedar or pine bedding and provide a stable environment with temperatures around 18–24 °C; keep away from direct sunlight and excessive humidity.

Diet consists of a commercial hamster mix supplemented with fresh vegetables and occasional protein. Fresh water should be available at all times. Reproduction: females reach sexual maturity at around 4–6 weeks; gestation is about 18–22 days; litters typically contain 4–7 young.

The Roborovski hamster is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN and is widely kept as a pet. It is named after the Russian explorer Vsevolod Roborovski.