Guinea Pig | Wildlife

The Wildlife | Guinea Pig | Guinea pigs are tail-less rodents that are native to the west coast of South America and since the mid-1800′s, laboratories have used guinea pigs for research. The correct name for guinea pigs is Cavy, pronounced “kay-vee”. Guinea pigs usually weigh around 3 ounces at birth, around 1-2 pounds full grown, and live for 5-6 years. An adult will measure 8-10 inches from the tip of its nose to the end of its rump. Their hair comes in a wide range of colors and the hair may be long, short or short and curly. 

Guinea pigs have a very good sense of smell and sensitive hearing. They love to vocalize with squeals, chirps, squeaks, and whistles. Although not known for their intelligence, they do recognize their owners and will seek them out and return affection. All around the world guinea pigs are kept as pets. If treated properly and given the right amount of time and energy, they can become extremely tame.They are a lot of effort and are far from being easy to take care of but they are well worth the effort. The guinea pig tends to communicate through a series of high pitched squeals. Apparently guinea pigs are unable to judge height and distances accurately and should therefore never be left on a bed or table without supervision. 

Guinea pigs are cuddly, comical, and clever. They make wonderful pets for children and can be very social animals. Guinea pigs do better in pairs as they prefer company, so unless you have a lot of time to devote to your pet getting at least two is often a good idea. They are not expensive to own and the biggest expense is the initial setting up of housing. Guinea pigs are hardy pets so veterinarian expenses are minimal.  Guinea pigs make excellent pets, especially for children, as they are easy to handle. They are usually friendly and respond well to human companionship. 

Guinea Pigs are especially vocal and can make a variety of noises. Different breeds and individual animals vary in size, temperament and grooming needs. While they seem to have limited intelligence Guinea Pigs can respond to their ownerand make an ideal pet for young children.They are sometimes nervous, but will rarely bite or scratch. Kept in clean conditions they are practically odour free and,  as their only sounds are grunts and whistles, they do not create a noise problem.

 Guinea Pig

 Guinea Pig

 Guinea Pig

 Guinea Pig

 Guinea Pig