Short-tailed Chinchilla
Chinchilla chinchilla
Conservation Status
EndangeredMammalia · Rodentia · Chinchillidae
About
The short-tailed chinchilla is a small rodent part of the Chinchillidae family and is classified as an endangered species by the IUCN. Originating in South America, the chinchilla is part of the genus Chinchilla, which is separated into two species: the long-tailed chinchilla and the short-tailed chinchilla. Although the short-tailed chinchilla used to be found in Chile, Argentina, Peru, and Bolivia, the geographical distribution of the species has since shifted. The species remains extant in the Andes mountains of northern Chile, but small populations have been found in southern Bolivia.
Fun Fact
However, chinchillas are agile and can run up to 15 mph, so they can escape predators.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Live in self-dug burrows or crevices of rocky areas with shrubs and grasses nearby, usually mountainous grasslands.
Diet
Feed on high-fiber vegetation specifically foliage, leaves, shrubs, seeds, nuts, grasses, herbs, flowers, and grains.
Lifespan
8–10 years (captivity)
Threats
- Habitat Loss
- Poaching and Hunting
- Human-Wildlife Conflict
- Disease