All about Chinchilla Corner
My name is Jamie and this is my story.
In 2003, I bought my first chinchillas from Alice Tucker in Amarillo, TX. From that moment, I knew that I wanted chinchillas to be my life. I brought them back home, raised them for a year and was ready for more. I returned to Texas, and bought my first breeding pair. Six months later, I went back to Amarillo and bought 3 more pairs.
Those chinchillas kept me busy for quite some time, and I became very close to Alice and we kept in touch. In 2005 I was ready to expand a bit, and let Alice know. This time when I returned to Amarillo, I had the opportunity to meet Tamara Tucker and Pam Biggers and see their ranch. I was in Heaven! They take great pride in their animals and also have the Royal Persian Angora chinchillas, which are absolutely beautiful.
In 2007, I also attended my first Empress show and have been a member ever since. I have a few 1st place and Champion chinchillas that have lines from top breeders including: Tamara Tucker and Pam Biggers, Joe Brown, Jim Ritterspach, Mike & Connie Lawrence, and Bob & Vicki Merritt.
Because my family resides in New Mexico, I don’t get to see them as often as I’d like. While I was attending a family function in New Mexico in 2007, I was surprised to learn that my grandfather bred chinchillas from the late 1950’s through the 70’s! I was 3 when my grandfather got out of breeding. I was amazed at the stories they told me about me going to play in the chinchilla barn while my grandfather cared for them. It must be in my genes!
I breed my chinchillas in monogamous pairs, each pair having their own cage. None of my animals have ever been in breeding runs. I breed Standards (grey), Hetero and Homo Ebonies, Hetero Beiges, Black Velvets, Tans, Brown Velvets, Sapphire, Violet and Violet Wraps, and Mosaics.
They are very spoiled with their hidey houses, chew toys, premium food, etc. My basement is devoted to the chins, and everything has been set up to accommodate their specific needs. I love the bond that I develop with each of my chinchillas, their individual personalities, and being the one they depend on to take care of their needs.
I have learned so much over the years and have been lucky enough to even attend surgery with my veterinarian. I have received a lot of information from Kansas State University and their outstanding Exotic Studies department. However, none of this compares to the friendship and mentoring I have been given by Alice, Tamara, and Pam. I am forever thankful to them.
Over the next year, I will be giving my website a makeover and hope to add much more educational information, including specific information on my chinchillas and Empress Chinchillas, while still keeping the website fun and enjoyable.
I’ve made chinchillas my life and want to raise the highest quality animals possible for pet owners and breeders alike.
Sapphire
Pink White
Mosaic & her baby