A chinchilla is a small, nocturnal rodent native to the Andes mountains in South America. Known for its incredibly soft fur, which is among the densest of any land mammal, chinchillas are often kept as pets. They have a playful and curious nature but require specific care, including a dust bath for grooming and a suitable habitat. In the wild, they live in colonies and are adapted to a rocky environment, which helps them escape predators.