Chinchilla
*This page is under renovation and all information may not be up-to-date or complete*
This animal is an Animal Ambassador and lives behind-the-scenes. Animal Ambassadors attend school programs, special events, ZooLive! Stage Shows, guest engagement activities, and outreach events.
Description
Range & Habitat
Found In: barren, arid areas in Western South America including the Andes Mountains in Chile and Argentina
Behavior
Diet
Herbivore: seeds, leaves, roots and fruit
Conservation
Threats include hunting and trapping to use their fur for clothing
Fun Facts
- Chinchillas can live up to 20 years under human care.
Virginia Zoo Animals
Male: Machu
Female: Picchu

Scientific Name
Chinchilla lanigera
IUCN Conservation Status
Endangered
Size
Length: 12-21 inches
Weight: 1-2 lbs
Life Expectancy
— years