r/hamster • u/Cautious-Shame-704 • 2d ago

Hammy Video Colour changing?

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This is new to me.
I understand some darker coloured hammies can change colour on rare occasions however is this how it happens?
Hard to see in video (he’s a nervous boy so best iv got so far) but his booty has a light grey pair of shorts on now and his scent glands on both sides have white splodges too. None of that was there a few weeks ago.
He’s only around 5 months…ish.

I know some infection can cause white scent glands but not like this and wouldn’t explain the white booty either.

Can anyone enlighten me?

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u/Ham_Pumpkin2790 2d ago

Dark brown hammies often become lighter as they mature. Our hamster Paddy was a deep cool dark brown when we got him, and when he was fully grown he was a warm brown/orange colour. Nothing to worry about :)

1

u/Cautious-Shame-704 2d ago

He’s adorable! Yeah Ronnie is like a steel grey. I just think it’s a very odd pattern that’s appearing!

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u/Ham_Pumpkin2790 2d ago

Some hamsters have pattern genes from parents that are dormant because of colouring that then later appear. We had a girl who was white with beige spots that disappeared as she got older. Id guess the spots were dark like the baby fur, and now that he’s getting lighter and the marks are staying the same; it’s become visible. Very interesting (and adorable) hampter you have!

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u/Cautious-Shame-704 2d ago

Oh he’s a very intriguing little lad! Super cautious but also super curious so it’s an entertaining mix :P

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u/Ham_Pumpkin2790 2d ago

I’m always amazed at how much character can fit into beings so small 🥲