| Size |
The chinchilla has a body length of up to 10” with a tail length of about 5”. |
| Weight |
Chinchillas range from 1lb to 1 ¾ lb with females being larger and heavier than males.
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| Conservation Status |
On the 2008 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, the chinchilla is listed as Critically Endangered. |
| Diet |
Chinchillas are a very popular pet animal. If allowed, pet chinchillas can become extremely obese. At the Zoo, the weights of our chinchilla are closely monitored and the animals are fed according to their body weight. The base diet is a commercial chinchilla pellet and a small amount of grass hay. The enrichment portion of the diet includes seeds and carrots. |
| Geographic Range |
Once very abundant, chinchillas have been hunted nearly to extinction. While they were once found throughout the Andes and other mountain ranges in Chile, Argentina, Bolivia and Peru, they are now found in only a few isolated pockets in southern Chile. |
| Where to find me in the Zoo |
Small Mammal House |
Note: Description below should include Longevity, Behavior, and Reproduction information
Chinchillas are compact in shape with large ears, big dark eyes, and a bushy tail. They have a soft, dense coat that protects them from the elements in their natural habitat. They are various shades of gray with a yellowish-white underbelly. Their front paws are small with naked palms, while their rear feet are larger to help them jump and run quickly to escape from danger.
Longevity
Chinchillas have a relatively long lifespan. Wild chinchillas usually live to around 10 years, while domesticated ones have lived to over 20.
Behavior
Wild chinchillas are mainly nocturnal and live in large colonies in rocky, mountainous areas. They prefer high elevations and are often found between 10,000 and 15,000 ft. Their habitat is barren and rugged, and the climate is harsh. Their soft, dense fur protects them from extremes of temperature and they are so well insulated that they can’t withstand high temperatures. Colonies can range from a few individuals to over 100 that are spread out over wide areas and stay in contact with a range of vocalizations. Female chinchillas are larger and more aggressive than the males and are the dominant sex. Chinchillas face many predators such as hawks, skunks and foxes. They are quick and agile and can jump 5’ high if necessary to escape. They live in crevices and burrows among the rocks and can dart away quickly when they sense danger.
Reproduction
At around 111 days, chinchillas have a long gestation period compared to other rodents of similar size. The young are precocial, which means that they are born fully furred and with their eyes open. Baby chinchillas are weaned in about 60 days and are sexually mature at 8 months. Chinchillas typically have two litters per year with two or three young per litter.
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Big One: Male, born December 24, 2005 at the Bronx Zoo. He arrived at the Zoo on
September 16, 2007.
Little One: Male, born June 5, 2007 at the Bronx Zoo. He arrived at the Zoo on September 16, 2007.
Enrichment
Adoption Information
Featured Foster Parent