Degu
Octodon degus
Here at Banham Zoo
The degu is a lively and intelligent rodent native to the scrublands of Chile. With soft brown fur, bright eyes, and a long, tufted tail, this curious creature is highly social, living in close-knit groups and communicating through a variety of vocalisations.
Degus are diurnal, meaning they are most active during the day, and they love to dig intricate burrow systems. At Banham Zoo, you can observe their playful interactions and fascinating behaviours up close.
Where Do I Live?
Chile
The degu is endemic to Chile, where is it found in dry, rocky habitats on the slopes of the Andes. They are sociable animals, living in colonies or large family groups.
What Do I Eat?
They are herbivores, feeding mainly on grasses, leBird, bark and seeds. Like chinchillas, degus are not tolerant of sugar so must never be given sweet, sugary food such as fruit.
How Do I Breed?
In the wild degus are seasonal breeders, giving birth to their young in the spring and summer after a three month pregnancy.
Together, we protect wildlife
Conservation status
Least Concern (LC)
Lowest risk of endangerment.
Degus are not considered to be threatened in the wild and are commonly kept as pets in many countries.
Some Helpful Links
Where is the
Degu
located?
Our
Degu
is located in our
Entrance Zone
, map reference
7
.
What’s the best time to see the animals?
The best time to see our animals is often during feeding times or in the cooler parts of the day when they are most active. Check our daily timetable for keeper talks and feeding sessions for an up-close look! Our habitat signage also includes helpful hints and tips to make the most of your visit.
How do you ensure the animals' welfare?
Animal welfare is our top priority. We provide species-specific habitats, enrichment activities, and expert veterinary care to ensure all our animals thrive.
