The name Degu comes from the indigenous language of Chile, mapudungum, and the word dewu means mouse or rat.
Degu
Its cheek teeth are shaped like a figure of eight hence the degus genus name is Octodon.
Digging chain
Degus digging together coordinates their activities forming digging chains. In the wild, degus live in complex burrow systems that they dig themselves.
Degu
Degus use their urine to scent mark their territories. Degus are highly territorial and will defend their territory from intruders.
Tail Shedding
A defense mechanism is seen in degus when it sheds off the skin and fur of its tail so as to slip from the predator’s grip.
Sense of Smell
Degus have a keen sense of smell, which they use to navigate their environment and identify food sources.
Grooming
Degus keep themselves clean by spending some time in a Sand Box