The European hamster (Cricetus cricetus) has a significantly longer lifespan than common hamsters. Here’s the key information:
I. Lifespan Data
Average Lifespan
The average lifespan of European hamsters can reach 8 years, far exceeding that of common hamsters, which live 2–3 years.
Other Key Metrics
Some individuals weigh 600–900 grams, with the heaviest recorded at 1 kilogram.
During their endangered period, the wild population dwindled to just over 100 individuals, and France once allocated 3 million euros for their protection.
Comparison with Other Hamsters
Common hamsters like Roborovski hamsters live about 3–3.5 years, and Syrian hamsters (golden hamsters) live 2–3 years. The European hamster’s lifespan is 2–3 times longer than these.
II. Factors Affecting Lifespan
Wild Habits
As nocturnal, solitary animals, European hamsters are highly wild and difficult to domesticate. They also have hibernation habits, which may contribute to their longevity.
Conservation Status
Their numbers once plummeted to endangered levels due to habitat destruction. Human intervention measures may have helped extend the population’s lifespan.
III. Differences from Other Hamsters
Size: With a head-and-body length exceeding 34 centimeters, they are the largest known hamster species.
Survival Strategy: Most common hamsters adopt an "r-selection" strategy (short-lived with high reproduction), while European hamsters are closer to a "K-selection" strategy (long-lived with low reproduction).
Note: Data on captive breeding is limited; existing lifespan records are mainly based on wild observations.