Pacific degu facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Pacific degu |
|
|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Octodon
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| Species: |
pacificus
|
The Pacific degu (Octodon pacificus) is a small animal. It is also called the Mocha Island degu. This animal is a type of rodent, like a mouse or a rat. It belongs to a family of rodents called Octodontidae.
This special degu lives only in one place. It is found only on Mocha Island in Chile. This means it is endemic to that island. Its natural habitat is warm, wet forests near the coast. Sadly, its home is disappearing. This is called habitat loss. Because of this, the Pacific degu is in danger. A scientist named Dr. Rainer Hutterer officially named and described this species in 1994.
Contents
About the Pacific Degu
The Pacific degu is related to the common degu. Both are active during the day. This means they are diurnal animals. They search for food and move around when the sun is out.
What it Looks Like
The Mocha Island degu has some unique features. It has long, soft fur. Its tail is different from some other degus. It does not have a big tuft of fur at the end. This makes it look a bit more like older types of degus.
Where it Lives
The Pacific degu's home is very specific. It lives in the lowland forests of Mocha Island. These forests are warm and moist. They provide everything the degu needs to survive.
Why it's in Danger
The biggest threat to the Pacific degu is its disappearing home. People are changing the forests on Mocha Island. This takes away the places where the degus live and find food. Protecting these forests is very important. It helps to save the Pacific degu from becoming extinct.
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