Violet chinchilla

Violet chinchilla is a recessive coat colour of the long-tailed chinchilla. The mutation first appeared in Rhodesia in the 1960s and was later established in the United States. Breeders often call it "Afro-violet" or "Sullivan violet."

History

Breeding accounts trace the mutation to Frank Gillingham of Salisbury, Rhodesia, whose herd produced the first violets. Animals from his herd were later acquired by Loyd Sullivan, who promoted the colour in the United States. A Rhodesian government notice in 1966 listed Gillingham as a chinchilla specialist, confirming his role in the industry at that time.

Appearance

Violet chinchillas show a bluish-grey coat with a lavender tone over the guard hairs. The belly remains white, like in standard greys. Shade can range from pale to dark. Breeders sometimes cross the mutation with ebony to create a darker "violet wrap."

Genetics

The violet mutation is recessive. Only chinchillas with two copies show the colour; carriers look standard grey. Some sources also describe a separate "German violet" line with different genetic background.

Terminology

Common names include "Afro-violet," "Sullivan violet," and "violet." Breeder accounts sometimes also call it the "Gillingham violet."