About the Chinchilla
The Chinchilla is a small, soft-furred rodent native to the high-altitude regions of the Andes Mountains. Known for having one of the densest and softest fur coats of any land mammal, chinchillas are agile, alert, and highly social animals that thrive on interaction and routine.
Habitat
In the wild, chinchillas inhabit rocky, arid mountain slopes at elevations between 9,000 and 15,000 feet. They shelter in crevices and burrows during the day, emerging at dawn and dusk to forage. In managed care, they require cool, dry environments with ample space for jumping and climbing, as well as dust baths to maintain their dense fur.
Diet
Chinchillas are herbivores that primarily feed on grasses, hay, and plant matter. Their digestive systems are adapted to high-fiber, low-fat diets. Fresh timothy hay should form the basis of their nutrition, supplemented with small amounts of pellets and occasional treats.
Interesting Facts
- Chinchillas have the densest fur of any land mammal, with up to 80 hairs per follicle
- They take dust baths rather than water baths to keep their fur clean and healthy
- Chinchillas can jump up to 6 feet in the air
- They are crepuscular, meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk
- With proper care, chinchillas can live 15-20 years
Why This Animal Matters
Chinchillas are considered endangered in the wild due to hunting for their fur and habitat loss. As ambassador animals, they help educate visitors about the consequences of the fur trade, the importance of habitat conservation, and the long-term commitment required to care for exotic pets responsibly.
Support and Sponsor Chinchilla
Your sponsorship directly supports Chinchilla's care, habitat, and enrichment activities. When you sponsor an animal, you help provide food, veterinary care, habitat improvements, and enrichment. Choose a sponsorship level that works for you and make a difference for Chinchilla today.
All sponsorships are tax-deductible donations that go 100% toward animal care and welfare.
