Roborovski Hamster
Ah, the humble robo. They hold a special place in my heart, as my first hamster was a roborovski. These are the smallest of all hamster breeds and the most energetic. They are about a quarter of the size of a Syrian and probably around the size of a small tomato. Pip, my hamster though, is more like the size of a grape!
The roborovski hamster is the smallest hamster in the world! They are quick, agile and move at fierce speeds. It is very difficult to get a good picture of one because they never sit still! Often, robos can be quite shy and timid, and this is certainly the case for Pip, my hamster. If he hears anything sudden, he’ll have dashed into his little hidey-house before you can blink!
Though their suitability as pets for young children is next to nothing, these tiny critters are a much loved choice for adults and teenagers alike. Once a bond between robo and human has been established, roborovskis are extremely affectionate and close to their owners. Though they are difficult to tame and many people spend months trying to gain their trust, they rarely ever bite and once tame, are very rewarding pets.
Where do they come from?
- Roborovski hamsters originate from Mongolia and northern China.
General Info:
- Roborovskis are small, dwarf hamsters with a short tail, sandy-coloured back, white stomach and black beady eyes
- They’re sociable creatures that are happy to be kept in pairs. However, fighting between robos is common, so some people advise to keep robos on their own.
- They have long hind legs which enables them to move at lightning fast speeds. This is the main reason why robos are not good pets for children because they are not the type of pet that sits on your hand calmly while you pet it. Because they move so much, and very quickly, they make great pets to watch. They can be very entertaining!
- On average, robos live for 2 and a half to 3 years, but some have lived up to 4.
- Unlike the Syrian, roborovski hamsters only have one coat type, which is a sandy-brown coloured back, specked with black and a white belly. However it’s possible to get robos with a completely white face. These are called agouti robos.
- All robos are insanely cute.
Suitability:
- As I have mentioned before, roborovski hamsters are not the ideal pet for a child, as they are so quick and timid. However, they make great pets to watch, no matter what age you are. They’re so active and have some of the biggest personalities, despite their small size. So if your not looking for a hamster to just hold and pet, but watch with great interest and excitement, the roborovski hamster may be the one for you!
Here’s a list of advantages and disadvantages of robos, to help you decide if they’re the pet for you!
Pros:
- Roborovski hamsters are extremely active and are great fun to watch.
- Roborovski hamsters are naturally loving and can create powerful bonds between themselves and their owners.
- They are naturally playful and it can be hilarious watching them explore new toys that you’ve made or bought for them.
- They are sociable animals and can be kept in pairs. This is handy if you want two hamsters!
Cons:
- Because they’re so quick-moving, they aren’t great pets for kids.
- They can be difficult to tame.
- Because of their small size, it can be difficult to find a wire cage for robos that they wouldn’t be able to fit through. The gaps between the wire of a Syrian hamster cage are often too big, and many roborovskis have escaped as a result.
The roborovski hamster is a beautiful breed and each individual holds a wonderful personality. Anyone who believes that a robo is the pet for them, are guaranteed to have a fantastic and enjoyable time caring for them!