Chinchilla
Chinchilla lanigera

Description
These are a store favorite due to their attractive personalities and super soft fur.
length: 9-15 inches.
weight: 600-800 grams.
lifespan: about 15-20 years in captivity.

Diet
They require little in the way of food. Only chinchilla pellets, fresh, clean, dry hay and fresh water. They also require something to chew on, wood or a pumice stone, to help keep their teeth from growing too long.

Cage Requirements
It is important to provide lots of floor space, rather than height, for these critters since they love to scamper about the cage. It is recommended that cages should be made of welded wire mesh, at least 16g in thickness, with the holes no larger than 1.9 cm (3/4 inch) square. Raised wire floors allow droppings, urine and partially eaten food to fall through, as the chinchilla is a clean animal that does not like its fur to become soiled.

Fascinating Facts
1. Originates from the Andes of South America.
2. Chinchillas need a dust bath every day for about 10 minutes.
3. Chinchillas can jump 6 feet straight up!