Interview with Gail Dick

Positives of coruros as pets?
They are very unique little critters that make quite a few different sounds. They don't smell and they get a long in pairs and trios.

Negatives of coruros as pets?
They dig constantly and they dust could be bothersome for some people. My adults are somewhat intimidating because they will charge at you with their teeth bared if you put your hand in their cage.

Do they have scent glands or an offensive smell?
No

What is their average lifespan?
According to Walker's Mammals of the World one was recorded to live longer than 5 years in captivity.

Do they tolerate interaction?
The babies can be handled if they are worked with from a young age.

What is their general personality, disposition, and attitude?
Curious. They would rather come out and see what is going on rather than hide in their tunnels.

Are they sweet and petable, or mischievious and playful?
If handled properly they can be sweet and petable

Are they hyper, or more sedate when being handled?
If they are handled when they are young they are more sedate, but the adults that have not been handled a lot are hard to hold in your hands!

How destructive are they in their cage?
They constantly gnaw so I only put things in their cage that they can chew on.

Are there any problems associated with their claws?
No, but their teeth are huge!

How messy are their droppings?
They are dry and not messy at all.

Can they be litter box trained?
No

Can they be trained?
I doubt it.

What size cage do they need?
The bigger the better and the deeper the better. I wouldn't recommend anything smaller than a 15 gallon glass aquarium.

What is the best diet for them?
I give them a variety of seed type foods especially parrot mixes. I also give them fresh fruits and vegetables.

What vaccinations/vet care do they require?
None, unless ill.

At what age would it be best to get one?
Just weaned at about 5 weeks

Are they difficult to breed?
Yes. Their breeding is very unpredictable

Other Consideration for owners of coruros?
They are very hard to find and there is very little information available about them.

What kind of person should own these animals?
Someone who is very patient and not afraid of getting bit!