General Information
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Common Name: Degu
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Scientific Name: Octodon degus
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Family: Octodontidae (closely related to chinchillas and guinea pigs)
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Origin: Central Chile, living in dry shrubland and rocky areas
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Status: Domesticated populations exist, but wild degus are also common
Physical Description
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Size: 25–30 cm (9–12 in), including tail
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Weight: 170–300 g (6–10 oz)
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Body Shape: Small, sturdy body with short legs and long whiskers
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Tail: Long with a tuft of black fur at the end (can be shed if pulled → “fur slip” defense)
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Coat: Short, soft, and brownish agouti (wild-type); some domesticated color morphs exist (blue, black, cream, etc.)
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Lifespan: 5–8 years in captivity (rarely more than 3–4 in the wild due to predators)
Behavior & Lifestyle
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Personality: Curious, intelligent, highly active, and very social
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Temperament: Friendly but not cuddly in the same way as guinea pigs; they enjoy interaction but may not like constant handling
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Social Needs: Must live in groups—keeping one alone leads to stress and depression
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Daily Rhythm: Diurnal (active during the day, unlike most rodents)
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Communication: Very vocal—use chirps, squeaks, and whistles to communicate with each other
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Enrichment Needs: Require climbing structures, wheels, tunnels, and chew toys to stay mentally stimulated
Diet
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Type: Strict herbivores (hindgut fermenters)
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Staple Diet:
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Unlimited hay (timothy, meadow, orchard grass)
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Degu-specific pellets (low sugar)
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Fresh leafy greens (dandelion, kale, herbs, safe leaves)
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Avoid: Sugary foods (fruits, treats) → degus are prone to diabetes
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Supplements: Occasional safe vegetables; gnawing sticks for dental health
