Chinchilla

(Chinchilla lanigera)

Chinchillas are exceptionally social animals. Colonies in the wild can sometimes exceed 100’s of individuals. Their thick fur keeps them warm in their mountain habitat, but unfortunately it is this thick fur that humans hunt for, resulting in the Chinchilla being classed as critically endangered in the wild.

FUN FACTS

Animal Class: Mammals.

Distribution: Chile.

Habitat: Shrubland and rocky areas.

Diet: Vegetation.

Appearance: Grey fur with a long, bushy tail.

Size: Can reach up to 35cm and weigh up to 490g.

Lifespan: Up to 20 years.

CONSERVATION STATUS

Critically Endangered.

Population Trend

Decreasing.

Threats

Agriculture and logging.

Population

Approximately 5,350.

Did you know?

The gestation period of Chinchillas is unusually long, last 111 days, but once the young are born, they are well developed and able to take care of themselves. The young are then weaned at around 6-8 weeks old.

See our Chinchilla!

We have one Chinchilla here at Ponderosa Zoo and you can find her in the Nocturnal House. Her name is Sauron.

Zoo – 01924 235276 / office@ponderosa-centre.co.uk

Lakeside Restaurant – 01924 404604 / lakeside@ponderosa-lakeside.co.uk

Day Care – 01924 404154

Ponderosa Zoo, Off Smithies Lane, Heckmondwike, WF16 0PN

Opening Hours 10am – 4pm Mondays, Fridays and weekends.