Here’s a detailed analysis of the lifespan of Russian hamsters (Campbell's hamster/black-bellied hamster):
1. Basic Lifespan Data
Average Lifespan
Wild individuals: 1.5–2 years
Captive-bred: 2–3 years (up to 3.5 years under ideal conditions)
Breed-specific Details
Black-bellied hamster: Typical lifespan 2–3 years, fur turns white in winter.
Djungarian hamster: 6–8 cm in length, lifespan 2–4 years.
2. Factors Affecting Lifespan
Environmental Conditions
Optimal temperature (18°C–26°C) extends lifespan.
Humidity should be maintained at 30%–40%.
Behavioral Traits
Nocturnal activity pattern (active 19:00–04:00).
Solitary nature reduces injury from fights.
3. Exceptional Records
Roborovski hamster (a subspecies of Russian hamster): Recorded maximum lifespan of 3.5 years in captivity.
Female individuals typically live 10%–15% shorter than males due to reproductive stress.
This breed has a significantly shorter lifespan than Syrian hamsters (2–4 years) and pet rabbits (8 years). To optimize lifespan, it is recommended to control breeding frequency and provide a balanced diet.