The behavior of the Octodon degus is often misunderstood or misinterpreted. This small rodent so communicative has many surprises in store for us and its observation is the key to understanding it.
In the wild, degus share their habitat with several other small mammal species. These include the bennett’s chinchilla rat (Abrocoma bennettii) and tuco-tucos of the… Read More »Keeping degus with other species: risks and precautions
Degus are naturally lively and inquisitive, but individuals vary in confidence. Building trust takes patience, particularly with shy animals. Some members of a group may… Read More »How to tame a degu
Degus are lively, fast-moving rodents. Catching and handling them can sometimes be challenging, whether for transporting them or recovering them after they escape. Several approaches… Read More »Catching and handling degus safely
Degus are social animals with complex relationships and a varied vocal repertoire. Wild animals have opportunities to disperse or avoid a neighbour that a captive… Read More »Managing conflict and fights between degus
A food bowl is a familiar item in a degu enclosure, but it is worth considering what it contributes and what other feeding methods can… Read More »Do degus need a food bowl?
Degus communicate through a rich combination of calls, posture, scent and contact. Long’s classification distinguishes 15 vocal categories; tooth sounds and other mechanically produced noises… Read More »Degu sounds and vocalisations
Degus need a spacious, appropriate home and regular opportunities to explore, forage, dig and manipulate objects. Environmental enrichment aims to improve physical and mental welfare… Read More »An enrichment guide for degus
A captive enclosure cannot reproduce every feature of a degu’s natural environment. Appropriate food and conscientious care remain essential, but owners should also observe behaviour… Read More »Behavioural problems and stereotypies in degus
The common degu, Octodon degus, is an active, social rodent native to Chile. Its calls, movements and social interactions can initially be surprising. Learning to… Read More »Degu behaviour
Degus are social rodents with complex communication and relationships. Wild social groups vary in size and composition; descriptions include several females and one or more… Read More »Can a degu live alone?
