Degu Octodon degus
Animals in our sanctuary
Leo
Leo was bought by an older couple from a German trader. When the couple had to move to a nursing home, Leo was not allowed to come along and was brought into Stickting AAP. Together with another degoe he found a new home in De Zonnegloed.
Winston
Winston comes from a school for special education where he was kept together with another degu as a pet for the pupils. As the school didn't have enough space to place a bigger enclosure for the animals, the management decided to find another place for them.
Rosita
Rosita was found by people and brought to a vet. The degu is not a native species; it was probably dumped and abandoned by its previous owner or it escaped.
Lise
Lise comes from a woman who kept several bird species and a degu. The animals were well cared for, but due to circumstances she had to part with them. Lise can now enjoy a new home in De Zonnegloed.
Where does he feel at his best?
Originally the degu comes from Chilli. The degu was discovered in the mid-18th century in the Andes.
What does he like to eat?
They are herbivores and eat only green fodder. In the wild they live in an environment where there are a lot of dry branches and leaves, so they almost only eat grains, grasses and seeds.
Fun fact
Degus easily develop diabetes.
They dig extensive aisles, where they build a winter stock.
They make squeaky and growling noises to communicate.