The largest hamster breed in the world is the European hamster (scientific name: Cricetus cricetus), whose size is significantly larger than other common pet hamsters. Here are its specific characteristics and comparisons:
Size Data
Adult body length: 20 - 35 centimeters (some individuals can reach over 35 centimeters).
Weight range: 220 - 460 grams (the largest recorded weight is about 900 grams).
Other Names and Distribution
Also known as the common hamster or black - bellied hamster, it gets its name from the dark - black fur on its abdomen.
Mainly distributed in Europe, wild populations are commonly found in farmlands and grasslands.
Behavioral Traits
It has well - developed cheek pouches that can store a large amount of food.
It is quite aggressive and may bite, so cautious handling is required.
Comparison with Common Pet Hamsters
Syrian hamster (Golden hamster): Body length is 12 - 15 centimeters, and weight is 100 - 150 grams.
Dwarf hamsters (such as Campbell's dwarf hamster): Body length is 7 - 10 centimeters, and weight is 20 - 50 grams.
The European hamster is approximately 2 - 3 times the size of ordinary pet hamsters and is truly the "giant" among existing hamsters.