| Roborovski hamster | |
|---|---|
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Scientific classification 
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| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Mammalia |
| Order: | Rodentia |
| Family: | Cricetidae |
| Subfamily: | Cricetinae |
| Genus: | Phodopus |
| Species: | P. roborovskii
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| Binomial name | |
| Phodopus roborovskii (Satunin, 1903)
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| Distribution of P. roborovskii | |
| Synonyms | |
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The Roborovski hamster (Phodopus roborovskii), also known as the desert hamster, Robo dwarf hamster or simply dwarf hamster is the smallest of three species of hamster in the genus Phodopus. It lives in the deserts of Central Asia, averaging 2 centimetres (0.8 in) at birth and 5 centimetres (2.0 in) and 20–25 grams (0.71–0.88 oz) during adulthood.[2] Distinguishing characteristics of the Roborovskis are eyebrow-like white spots and the lack of any dorsal stripe (found on the other members of the genus Phodopus). The average lifespan for the Roborovski hamster is 2–4 years, though this is dependent on living conditions (extremes being four years in captivity and two in the wild).[3] Roborovskis are known for their speed and have been said to run up to 6 miles a night.[4]
- ^ Cassola, F. (2017) [errata version of 2016 assessment]. "Phodopus roborovskii". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2016: e.T17036A115139633. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2016-3.RLTS.T17036A22353945.en.
- ^ Carol, Heather. "Roborovski Hamster". Southern Hamster Club. Retrieved 26 April 2013.
- ^ Chen, Michael. "How Long Do Hamsters Live?". Pet Gear Planet. Retrieved 16 March 2017.
- ^ "Why do Hamsters Run So Much?".