Chinchilla lanigera is a species of crepuscular rodent that is native to the Andes Mountains in South America. There are numerous synonyms for this species, including the common chinchilla, short-tailed chinchilla, long-tailed chinchilla, and crested chinchilla. Its scientific name, Chinchilla lanigera, means "woolly chinchilla" in Latin, which is a nod to its soft and dense fur. In addition to its fur, this species is also prized for its docile nature and playful personality, which has made it a popular pet worldwide. Despite its popularity, overhunting and habitat loss have led to this species being listed as endangered.