The Common Degu, a captivating rodent native to the Chilean Matorral region in South America, intrigues researchers and animal enthusiasts alike. Measuring between 10 to 12 inches (25 to 31 centimeters) in length, these brown-furred creatures resemble oversized hamsters with long tails. Unlike many small rodents, degus are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day and sleep at night. Their sociable nature and unique communication skills set them apart as remarkable beings in the animal kingdom.
Highly sociable, Common Degus engage in a variety of communication methods, capable of producing up to 15 distinct sounds. They live in complex underground tunnel systems, often sharing their homes with up to 10 other degus. This communal living arrangement highlights their need for social interaction and cooperation. Among their intriguing behaviors is the use of specific maternal calls by degu mothers while nursing their young. These calls are believed to stimulate feeding and reinforce maternal bonds.
One of the most fascinating aspects of degu communication involves their ability to perceive UV light. Fresh degu urine reflects UV light more strongly than older urine, allowing these rodents to distinguish between fresh and old urine marks. This keen sense aids them in locating areas of recent social activity and understanding their environment better. Such adaptations emphasize their complex social structures and reliance on non-verbal cues.
Dietarily, degus primarily consume grasses, seeds, and bark. Interestingly, they sometimes ingest their own feces as part of their nutritional intake. This behavior, while unusual to humans, is common among some rodent species, providing additional nutrients through re-ingestion.
In contrast to many nocturnal rodents like hamsters and chinchillas, degus' daytime activity patterns offer a distinctive glimpse into their behavior. Their unique tail adaptation further showcases their survival strategies. In a bid to escape predators, degus can detach their tails—a one-time escape mechanism, as these tails do not regenerate.
