Guinea Pig
Scientific Name: Cavia porcellus
Habitat: rocky areas, grass savannas, forest edges
Diet: grasses, leafy plants
Life span: 4-6 years
Young: 1-4/litter (pup)
Size: 0.5-1.5 kg (1-3 lbs)
In the wild, guinea pigs are most active at night, foraging for food.
They are social animals living in groups of 5-10 individuals. Guinea pigs communicate with distinct vocalizations: squeak = excitement; chirp = frightened; tooth chatter = anger.
They have been domesticated since 2,000 B.C. by the native peoples of the Andes Mountains where they are raised for food.
Learn more about this species:
These are some other websites that we think have more great information about this species.
Guinea pig on Animal Diversity Web
For More Information
Edmonton Valley Zoo
13315 Buena Vista Road (87th Avenue)
PO Box 2359
Edmonton, Alberta T5J 2R7
| attractions@edmonton.ca |
