Common Degu
Octodon degus
Conservation Status
Least ConcernMammalia · Rodentia · Octodontidae
About
The common degu, or, historically, the degu, is a small hystricomorpha rodent endemic to the Chilean matorral ecoregion of central Chile. The name degu on its own indicates either the entire genus Octodon or, more commonly, just the common degu. Common degus belong to the parvorder Caviomorpha of the infraorder Hystricognathi, along with the chinchilla and guinea pig. The word degu comes from the Mapuche word dewü, meaning 'mouse' or 'rat'.
Fun Fact
Degus are one of the few rodents that can see ultraviolet light — their belly fur reflects UV, and they may use this to recognise individuals and communicate in ways invisible to predators.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Scrublands and grasslands
Diet
Herbivore
Lifespan
5-8 years
Threats
- Agricultural Conversion
- Invasive Species