Chinchillas are rodents, slightly larger than squirrels, native to South America.  These pets need specialised care, so please make sure you have done your research into their needs and the care required.  Some key pointers are -
        
- a welded wire mesh cage, as large as possible but at least 90x60x40cm, preferably with different levels and tunnels. - chinchillas prefer floor space to cage height.  Some of the floow must be solid.
- chinchillas must live inside, away from direct heat or drafts.
- a water bottle.
- metal sand bath, to be given approx twice a week.  (Bath approx £10, sand approx £1.60 per kilo which will last several weeks).
- a metal or hardwearing food bowl not plastic (as they chew).
- chinchillas eat a dry food mix similar to rabbits (approx same cost) and they need hay daily.
- some wood/chew toys in their cage for them to chew on.
- a wooden nesting box (no bedding needed) - approx £7.50.
- they enjoy raisins, dried apricots, apples and corn on the cob as a treat, but only in small amounts. 
-  metal exercise wheel is optional (approx £20).
- they are inquisitive animals and need to be let out of their cage for around 1 or 2 hours per day (where they need to be supervised as they will nibble).
- chinchillas are nocturnal, ours wake up any time between 4-7pm.