Answer to Question 1
Various pelleted foods are available today for chinchillas. These pellets consist primarily of ground alfalfa hay,
corn gluten, corn tailings, wheat germ, and bran. The pelleted foods may be supplemented with fresh,
well-dried alfalfa or Timothy hay.
The diet can also be supplemented with grass, carrots, and celery. Pears and apple slices will be readily
consumed by chinchillas. As special treats, chinchillas love raisins.
Answer to Question 2
The first important mutant was a white male born in 1955. Another mutant was a beige female born in 1955
on an Oregon ranch. Black mutations called Black Velvet were developed in 1956 by an American breeder.
Other mutations are the Blue Black Velvets, Sapphire Velvets, Pastel Velvets, Brown Velvets, and Sullivan
Violets. Common mutant colors include white, beige, and black.
