Degu Octodon degus

The Degu, also called the Common Degu to distinguish from other species of wild degu, is native to central Chile. It is related to the Guinea Pig, Chinchilla and Capybara.

Degus are a brownish colour with sandy yellow around the eyes, the back of the ear base and a slight neck collar. Their tails have a black, hair-covered tip.

They are sociable, intelligent and live in a communal burrow system. They are mainly diurnal and, like rabbits, are herbivores that re-ingest their faeces.

Their sociability and daytime activity has made them popular household pets in recent years.