Guinea pig

Cavia porcellus

Traits and environment

Guinea pigs are large for rodents, weighing between 1 and 3 pounds (0.5 and 1.5 kg) and measuring 10 to 15 inches (250 to 400 mm) long. They live an average of five years with a maximum age of about eight years. They are social, living in the wild in small groups which consist of sows (females), a boar (male), and the young (which in a break with the preceding porcine nomenclature are called pups).

Related Topics:
Pound - Kg - Inch - Mm

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In their wild state, Guinea pigs are found on grassy plains and occupy an ecological niche similar to that of the cow. They move together in small groups (herds) eating grass or whatever other plants they come across. They are crepuscular, tending to be most active during dawn and dusk, when it is harder for predators to spot them. If startled they can run for cover with surprising speed. Domesticated guinea pigs have developed a different rhythm, and have longer periods of activity followed by short periods of sleep in between. Activity is scattered randomly over the 24 hours of the day.

Related Topics:
Ecological niche - Cow - Herds - Crepuscular

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Unlike many rodents such as mice, rats, or squirrels, guinea pigs are not very athletic. Jumping gaps, climbing, and fearlessness in the face of heights were not skills guinea pigs needed in their environment, although they can hop over small obstacles with agility. When excited, guinea pigs tend to do little jumps in the air (known as "popcorning") but they seldom jump higher than a few centimeters.

Related Topics:
Mice - Rats - Squirrels - Environment

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Guinea pigs are vocal animals, with a fairly large vocabulary. Some sounds are:

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• The "Wheek". A loud noise that sounds about the same as its written form. Means "feed me" or "pay attention", or possibly "I'm hurt".
• "Rumbling". This sound is related to guinea pig dominance or in response to an unfamiliar sound. It sounds like purring and is often vocalised whilst the animal struts around slowly (showing desire to mate or dominate). Also known as "Rumble Strutting" or "Motor Boating". Although a similar sounding to a cat's purr, the meaning is very different.
• "Chattering". This sound is made by rapidly gnashing the teeth together—it's a warning to others to keep away. Guinea pigs tend to raise their heads when making this sound so they look more dangerous.
• "Tribbling". This rather pleasant sound is made when the guinea pig is enjoying itself, usually when being petted or brushed. They may also make this sound when grooming each other.