Chinchillas

Chinchillas Gabby Lohse

Mrs. ReedPhysical science period 6

Spring 2010

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What is a chinchilla

• Chinchillas are basically a type of rodent.

• They come from south America in the Andes mountains.

• Baby chinchillas are called kits.

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What do chinchillas look like • Chinchillas can be up to 9 inches in length• Chinchillas usually have a larger body with a bunny looking face and squirrel like

tail. • Their ears are fairly small and look like a cat’s ear without it being pointed at the

end. • They also have whiskers. • Chinchillas are known for their very soft fur.

The chinchilla has long whiskers and small ears.

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A chinchilla with its large body and soft fur

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Where do chinchillas come from

• Chinchillas come from South Africa.

• They originated from the Andes mountains.

• They were discovered by explores in the 1500’s

• They were named after the chincha Indians. http://www.suncape.com/graphics/map-of-south-africa-large.png

How to care for a chinchilla

• Some chinchillas like to be held more often than other. • They enjoy being petted and will show their appreciation be nibbling on your

hand. • They eat dry kibbles and often like to live in an environment with toys and

straw on the ground. • They do not like to be in high places so set their food and water on the floor

of their cage.

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Chinchilla facts

• Chinchillas are agile jumpers. • Chinchilla fur is considered the softest

in the world. • Chinchilla fur is 30 times softer than

human hair. • They do not have dander, so they are

great for people who have pet allergies.

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Bibliography

• http://www.huggablepets.com/huggablepets/chininfo.shtml#top

• http://www.cheekychinchillas.com/faq.html

• http://www.chinchillaplanet.com/chinchilla-facts/

• http://www.stevemercier.com/chinchilla.html