Different Chinchilla Breeds with Images

Chinchillas, small, nocturnal animals that live at night, are active but restful during the day. These cute rodents are native to South America. If they can, they want to eat, play, hunt, and sleep at the exact same time every night.

They are easy to train and can be tamed if they are handled well from a young age. They do not show the same affection as a normal dog or cat, but they are more gentle than most dogs and cats. When they are being held during the day, they will sleep on their owners, which can feel like cuddling. There are two types of Chinchillas, and many colors to choose from. Let’s take a look at all the options.

Two Chinchilla Breeds

There are two types of Chinchillas: short-tailed Chinchillas, and long-tailed Chinchillas. Before adopting a Chinchilla, it is important to be aware of the differences in each breed. Here’s what you should know.

The Long-Tailed Chinchilla

The Chinchilla breed is known for its thick, dense fur which keeps them warm in colder environments. They don’t seem to heat up in warmer climates like Arizona. They are large and dark with big, deep eyes. They are safe to be around children because they have weak claws.

They can move around with ease thanks to their agile legs. They also have the ability to jump quickly and stand up well. As adults, long-tailed Chinchillas can grow up to 9-14 inches in length. They have bushy tails and cute little faces. As adults, these rodents can eat up to one pound.

Today, the highest concentration of long-tailed Chinchillas can be found in the mountains of Chile. They are attracted to higher elevations, and will happily live at elevations up to 16,000 feet. The long-tailed Chinchillas mainly eat vegetables, roots and moss. They will eat insects and bird eggs from time to time.

The Chinchilla species is used to live in large groups of relatives. These animals can live with hundreds of other animals at once. Males tend to be dominant and females can be more aggressive toward each other, especially when they are not growing up together.

The Short-Tailed Chinchilla

This rodent species, also known as the Peruvian Chinchilla or the Bolivian Chinchilla, is also called the short-tailed Chinchilla. It can be found in the United States. This Chinchilla breed is endangered so they won’t be found in pet shops. They have the same physical characteristics as long-tailed Chinchillas but tend to have thicker shoulders than their counterparts and shorter tails.

They like to hide underground in order to get shelter from the elements, especially during winter. They are found in the Andes mountains of Bolivia, Peru, and Chile. The short-tailed Chinchilla, which is endangered, is being farmed for its fur, which is luxurious, soft, and dense. The rodent’s home countries have tried to ban international farming.

7 Different Colors

There are seven colors available for both Chinchilla breeds. Before you decide on a Chinchilla for your family, here are some things to know about each variation.

1. White

Although their ears are darker than their body, white Chinchillas do not have the genetic ability to produce color. True white Chinchillas don’t have any yellow or beige coloring. They may appear silvery-colored, but they are not. This rodent generally has white fur.

2. Black

Although mostly black, the Chinchilla color has lighter sides and sometimes even white. Their ears and mouths are often lighter. Many black Chinchillas are white-colored with black stripes on their feet and have small white spots on their stomachs. These rodents appear almost black even when seen from close range. To create a baby with an almost violet color, you can cross the black Chinchilla with Chinchillas of lighter colors.

3. Beige

This Chinchilla color is more similar to champagne than any other. Their stomach is often brighter than the rest, and their eyes appear lighter than other Chinchillas. Some people consider their eyes purple, while others see them as gray.

4. Purple

These brilliant Chinchillas turn purple when they reach adulthood by combining ebony and violet genes. Their bellies are usually darker and often grey. Violet Chinchillas should not be bred together as it can cause the birth of a recessive gene that renders the babies uncolored or otherwise affects their health.

5. Brown

The breeding of black and beige parents results in brown Chinchillas. Their paws, mouths, and bellies are usually white. The rest of their bodies are velvety and soft, however.

6. Grey

All-natural grey Chinchillas are available. These animals are born naturally with a wonderful blend of black-white that gives them a deep grey color. Like most Chinchillas, these Chinchillas have white underbellies.

7. Pink

They should be called pink-and-white Chinchillas. Their base coat is white with pinkish patterns all over. They have pinkish tips at the ends, but it is possible to examine them closely. It is possible to mistake many pink Chinchillas for white Chinchillas.

Our Last Thoughts

Many beautiful Chinchillas are out there, waiting for a loving home that will take care of them and provide them with the safe space they need during the day. They are great pets for teens who have time to spend with them in the evenings. They are easy to care for no matter where they live. Are you thinking of adopting a Chinchilla? If yes, which type and what color? We would love to hear your thoughts! Please leave your thoughts below in the comments section.