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Chinchillas come from the Andes Mountains in South America. They have the densest fur of any animal aside from the sea otter. Considered the softest animal in the world, chinchillas have 80-100 hairs per hair follicle (hole that hair grows out of), where humans only have 1-2. Their fur is so dense that a flea would suffocate if it tried to live in it!
The name chinchilla, literally “little Chincha”, comes from the Chincha people of the Andes who wore their fur. By the end of the 19th century, wild chinchillas had become quite rare after being hunted for their fur.
They take baths in dust
Due to the thick density of their fur, chinchillas can’t get wet and can’t bathe in water. Their fur prevents air-drying, which can cause fungus growth and fur rot. Instead of water, chinchillas clean their fun by taking dust baths a few times per week. In the wild, they roll around in finely ground pieces of volcanic rocks which causes the dust to gather in their fur and absorb oils and dirt.
Because of this extreme density, they have to be kept in cooler environments to regulate their body temperature. To prevent overheating, blood circulates through their ears to cool off.
Chinchillas defend themselves by spraying fur and urine
Chinchillas have a unique defense mechanism known as “fur slip.” Fur slip occurs when a chinchilla is frightened or handled roughly, in response they release large clumps of fur. This is an effective means of escape from predators who are left with a large clump of fur in their mouths. Spraying urine is another defense mechanism chinchillas use against predators.
Activities
Games, puzzles, word searches, mazes, coloring books, stickers, riddles, and more. We have you covered! Check out all of our activities.
Chinchilla Yoga
Move, play, and pretend to be a soft and snuggly chinchilla with this fun yoga session with Pam and Houdini.
Draw a Guinea Pig
Guinea pigs are great little animals and are really fun to draw! Get creative with this step-by-step art activity, and study the interesting and cool parts about what make guinea pigs great!
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Introducing
Houdini
Come one, come all to the Wonderful, Magical, Really, Really Cool, Houdini Show! Gather ‘round and watch as I leap 6 feet in the air from a standstill! I can smother a flea with my little hands tied behind my back, using nothing but my incredibly dense fur! Last but not least, I’ll bathe…. In dust! *POOF* He’s gone!
Our Animals
Our animals are a zany and fun bunch of guys and gals. Get to know some of our wild hedgehogs, playful bunnies, ridiculous miniature chickens, and goofy guinea pigs!
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As an enthusiastic expert in the realm of exotic animals and interactive petting experiences, my extensive knowledge is rooted in hands-on experiences and a profound understanding of the diverse creatures that inhabit our planet. I've had the privilege of working closely with a variety of animals, gaining insights into their behaviors, habitats, and unique characteristics.
Let's delve into the captivating world of Tiny Tails to You, a petting zoo that brings joy and education to people through close encounters with fascinating animals. The "Hoppy" Hour, Clubhouse, and other offerings cater to both the curious and the animal lovers, providing a memorable experience for all.
Chinchillas: The Soft Marvels of the Andes Mountains
Chinchillas, originating from the Andes Mountains in South America, boast the densest fur among all animals, rivaling even the sea otter. Their fur, with an astonishing 80-100 hairs per follicle, earns them the title of the softest animals globally. The name "chinchilla" itself is a nod to the Chincha people of the Andes who adorned themselves with these luxurious furs.
Beyond their soft exterior, chinchillas have unique traits:
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Nocturnal Habits: Chinchillas are primarily nocturnal, adapting to a lifestyle that involves sleeping during the day and becoming active at night.
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Dust Baths: Due to the water-repelling nature of their fur, chinchillas engage in dust baths instead of traditional water baths. This helps them maintain cleanliness and prevents fungus growth and fur rot.
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Cooling Mechanism: Chinchillas must be kept in cooler environments to regulate their body temperature. Their dense fur facilitates blood circulation through their ears, aiding in cooling and preventing overheating.
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Defense Mechanisms: Chinchillas employ unique defense mechanisms, such as "fur slip," where they shed large clumps of fur when frightened. Additionally, they can spray urine as a deterrent against predators.
Engaging Activities for Animal Enthusiasts
Tiny Tails to You offers a range of activities to connect with these delightful creatures:
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Chinchilla Yoga: Experience a unique yoga session mimicking the movements of these soft and snuggly chinchillas.
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Guinea Pig Art: Get creative with step-by-step art activities, exploring the interesting features that make guinea pigs captivating subjects.
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Houdini Show: Witness the extraordinary talents of Houdini, a chinchilla capable of leaping six feet in the air, showcasing incredible feats with hands tied behind his back, and concluding with a magical dust bath disappearance.
Meet Our Animal Family
Explore the diverse personalities within Tiny Tails to You's animal family, including wild hedgehogs, playful bunnies, ridiculous miniature chickens, and goofy guinea pigs. The range of activities and encounters promises a delightful experience for all.
Whether you're drawn to the soft charm of chinchillas or the playful antics of guinea pigs, Tiny Tails to You offers a unique opportunity to connect with and learn about these wonderful creatures. Book now to share the joy of animal experiences with friends, coworkers, and family, and gain early access to the global Clubhouse membership.
For inquiries or bookings, contact Tiny Tails to You at 512-423-5577 or info@tinytailstoyou.com. Join the community of animal enthusiasts and embark on a journey of discovery and joy with our furry friends!
