Animal Facts

The natural habitat of the Chinchilla is located upon the high-altitude cliffs of the Andes Mountains in South America. As nocturnal herbivores, Chinchillas usually forage for such foods as plants, seeds, and fruits during the dark hours of the night. Chinchillas are also very social animals, and settle in large groups, called herds, within their burrow homes. The most well-known aspect of the Chinchilla is its amazing soft, thick fur. Their fur comes in a variety of colors, but the most common is a simple grey. Acting as protection, the dense layer of fur confuses predators. Instead of grasping the Chinchilla itself, the baffled hunters are left with a jaw full of fur.

Besides being used as defense, the fur of a Chinchilla is also is greatest threat. Many humans desire the use of the famously soft Chinchilla fur for fur coats. Because of this, Chinchillas have been hunted down for their fur, and some are even bred especially to be killed for their fur afterwards. This cruel behavior has caused the Chinchilla to become an endangered species, nearly extinct. We should always consider the effects that we have on all the magnificent creatures of the Earth, and improve our ways in order protect them. If we take action now by raising awareness about the deliberate slaughter of Chinchillas, then maybe one day, Chinchillas will no longer be an endangered species. Working together, we can save these adorable and amazing animals.