Mammals
Common Degu
Octodon degus
Living in highly social family groups within complex burrow systems, a common degu communicates through one of the most varied vocal repertoires documented in any rodent, a Chilean species valued by scientists studying circadian rhythms and social behaviour.
Overview
The common degu, Octodon degus, is a Least Concern mammal native to grassland and desert habitat across central Chile. Its highly social family structure, its unusual day-active lifestyle for a rodent, and its varied vocal communication make it one of the more behaviourally sophisticated small mammals found anywhere in South America.
A rodent built for daylight and company
While many rodents keep to themselves under cover of darkness, the common degu instead thrives in the open daylight hours surrounded by family, its social burrow systems and wide vocabulary of calls making it one of science’s favourite windows into rodent social behaviour.
Status
Least Concern, remaining widespread and generally stable across suitable grassland and desert habitat throughout central Chile.
Common Degu: common questions
Why is the common degu social?
This species lives in highly social family groups, sharing complex burrow systems and engaging in cooperative behaviours such as communal nursing of young.
Is the common degu active during the day or at night?
This species is diurnal, active mainly during the day, unlike many other rodent species that favour nocturnal activity to avoid predators.
Why is the common degu important to scientific research?
This species is valued by scientists studying circadian rhythms and social behaviour, thanks to its day-active lifestyle and complex social structure.
Does the common degu communicate vocally?
Yes, this species communicates using a wide range of vocalisations, among the most varied call repertoires documented in any rodent species.