Chinchilla found by dog walker given home

The young male is one of ten discovered by a dog walker in St Leonards.

RSPCA officers contacted the zoo to see if they could give him a new home.

Zoo manager Sue Woodgate said: 'I was extremely saddened to hear of the cruelty the chinchillas' experienced and we were very happy to offer one a home at the zoo.

'Chinchillas are sweet natured creatures and like all animals, they deserve to be looked after properly.'

The new arrival will share an enclosure with present occupant Toby, born at the zoo in 2002.

Toby has been living alone since his partner Kay Kay died.

Toby is now getting on well with the new chinchilla.

Staff at the zoo want help naming the new chinchilla.

If you have an idea email [email protected] with your own name and address.

The person offering the best suggestion will get a day out at the park for themselves and up to three other people.

The closing date for entries is February 29.