The chinchilla is a South American rodent. Their habitat is the cool high desert areas of the Andes Mountains. Originally brought to the United States in 1923, they are an active, practically odorless, parasite- free, and require little housing. A chinchilla weighs between one and two pounds, with a life span of an average of 10 to 15 years.
Their fur is soft, dense, plush, and silky, unmatched by any other animal. Their natural color on their back is an attractive blue-silver gray with darker tipping and a white belly fur. Other colors available include beige, black velvet, white - pink or mosaic, charcoal, ebony, pastel/tan, brown velvet, and violet. Hybrid colors are also becoming very popular.
Chinchillas are small, gentle, curious animals. Their easy care and simple feeding make them an ideal family member