Degus & Chinchillas

The degu and the chinchilla are two closely related mammals that come from alpine areas of Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina.

Chinchillas live at the higher altitudes of this area, which is considered a "high desert," with daily variations in temperatures from 0 to 75 degrees F, thin air, extremely low humidity and frequent high winds. Degus are generally found at somewhat lower altitudes, mostly in coastal areas and foothills.

Both degus and chinchillas are uniquely suited to this harsh environment. Some of their adaptations include dense coats, paws covered in fur, and a natural diet comprised primarily of marginal foods.

Currently considered rodents, degus and chichillas are members of the sub-order Caviomorpha, which also includes Patagonian cavies, capybaras, agoutis, and other rodents native exclusively to South and Central America. There is some disagreement in scientific circles about this classification. This debate is based on several differences between these animals and "typical" rodents - such as lifespan, gestation period, and social behavior.

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