Felix and Oscar came to the zoo in 2010. On average they live up to 20 years and weigh up to 2lbs. In the wild they can be found in the rocky slopes of South America. Their red blood cells hold more oxygen than any other rodent because of the high altitudes they live in. Chinchillas are primarily herbivores. Felix and Oscar love to eat hay. Chinchillas have the densest fur in all land mammals but is still extremely soft to the touch. They cannot take water baths, so they must bathe in dust to keep their fur clean. Chinchilla dust removes oil, dirt, and moisture from their fur to help him stay healthy. It also helps to promote soft fur and prevents dry skin.
Did You Know?
Chinchillas have the softest fur in all of land mammals.
