Degus [antikvár]

INTRODUCTION TO THE DEGUThe soft, gentle animal with the large, bright eyes returns your gaze. It shares your curiosity and radiates intelligence. Unlike anything you've .neen before, you lean closer to have a better look.The Pocket PetResembling a small squirrel with large ears and a tufted tail, the small creature sits up, sniffs the air, makes a low call in greeting, and awaits your next move. But you dare not stir for fear of losing the magic of the moment. Already you are mesmerized by this attractive little being, trapped by its charm, with a desire to learn more about it. This book will take you on an interesting journey into the secret life of one of the world's oldest, most fascinating^ and most mysterious rodents-the degu. And once you discover what a wonderful companion a degu can be, and how it can enhance your life, you will no doubt be taking one home.The degu is a "pocket pet," an affectionate term for companion animals tiny enough to fit into your pocket. A South American rodent, native to the western slopes of the Andes Mountains, degus can be found at elevations of 3,937 feet (1,200 m). It is the most common mammal in Chile, numbering more thanDegus (idapt easily to life in raptiinty if they hiive plenty of tiidin<; spaces and proper care.100 per acre. But such is not the case in North America and Europe, where the degu's increasing popularity has made it sometimes difficult to keep up the supply for the growing demand for this good-natured, affectionate pet.Degu CharacteristicsWeighing only 'A ounce (14 g) at birth and gaining 6 to IOV2 ounces (170-300 g) by the time it is fully grown, a degu will fit comfortably in the scooped palms of your hands. From the tip of its nose to the end of its rump, it measures 5 to 8 inches (12-20 cm) in length. The tail, almost 5 inches (12 cm) in length, can be as long as its body.The endearing appearance of the degu is partly attributable to its large, bright, dark eyes and well-developed, kidney-shaped ears, which give it an impish expression. The large ears are sparsely covered with short hair and set on a rather large head. Long whiskers accentuate the degu's broad face and small nose. The fur on the feet is white or gray. All four feet have four well-developed toes. On the hind feet, the fifth toe is poorly developed, and on the front