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How do chinchillas survive in the wild without getting wet?
In the wild, chinchillas are accustomed to low precipitation, low humidity levels and temperatures ranging from roughly 50-70 degrees. This allows them to survive without overheating due to their dense fur and their inability to dry adequately if they did happen to get wet.
How do chinchillas survive the rain?
They are built to withstand cool, dry climates so excessive moisture and heat will only cause them problems. Chinchillas cannot pant or sweat so they rely on their large ears that don’t have much fur to cool off.
What do chinchillas do when they eat?
While eating, chinchillas sit upright on their hind legs and hold the food in their front paws. In the wild, Chinchillas live in social groups called herds which contain around 100 individuals. Chinchillas are primarily nocturnal animals with activity peaking at dusk and dawn.
How do chinchillas stay dry in the wild?
In Chili, in the mountains, at high elevations of 10,000 plus feet, chinchillas do not encounter much precipitation, which is one way they remain dry in the wild. Additionally, chinchillas use the dirt/volcanic ash to roll in to cleanse their fur and help keep oils at necessary levels.
How long do chinchillas live in the wild?
In the wild, chinchillas live on average 8-10 years due to harsh conditions, hunting, and predators. In captivity, chinchillas live for 15-20 years or longer with proper care, a proper diet, and a safe habitat. Now, I don’t think many of you were curious about this question because you needed to know how long a chinchilla will survive in the wild.
Do chinchillas burrow?
Chinchillas don’t burrow, even though other similar rodents do. It’s true that chinchillas live in burrows. However, they don’t dig these burrows or excavate these crevices for themselves. Instead, they find burrows that other animals have made and abandoned.