The guinea pig or 'cavy' is a species of rodent in the family Caviidae and the genus Cavia.
Despite being called 'guinea pigs' they are not in the pig family or from Guinea.
Guinea pigs live on average for 4 - 5 years but sometimes as long as 8 years.
The guinea pig is an important creature for many indigenous South American people, especially as a comida source. But also for customary medicine or religious ceremonies.
Guinea pigs purr when they are happy, often, like a cat it is when they are being held or petted. They make a whistle noise when they are excited, usually on seeing their owner or when its feeding time.
Despite being called 'guinea pigs' they are not in the pig family or from Guinea.
Guinea pigs live on average for 4 - 5 years but sometimes as long as 8 years.
The guinea pig is an important creature for many indigenous South American people, especially as a comida source. But also for customary medicine or religious ceremonies.
Guinea pigs purr when they are happy, often, like a cat it is when they are being held or petted. They make a whistle noise when they are excited, usually on seeing their owner or when its feeding time.
