Mocha Island degu
Quick Summary
The Mocha Island degu is a species of rodent native to Mocha Island off the coast of central Chile. It is one of four species within the Octodon genus, commonly known as degus.1
Degus are ratlike in appearance, with large eyes and ears, and a body length of about 9.8 to 12.2 inches, plus a shorter tail. They have yellowish-brown fur on their upperparts and creamy yellow underparts.1
These rodents are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day, particularly in the morning and late afternoon. They live in colonial burrow systems and are known to forage for leaves, bark, seeds, grass, and fruit. The Mocha Island degu, along with Bridges's degu, is endangered due to habitat clearing for agriculture.1
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