10 in long, about 2 lbs. Variable color
and hair length.
Range
Central and South America - First named
Guiana Pigs when the
Dutch obtained them from Dutch Guiana (now Surinam) off the
coast of South America. The name evolved into Guinea Pig.
herbivorous: prefers grain, grass, fruit and
vegetables. Preyed upon by small mammalian carnivores and birds of prey.
Diurnal and terrestrial, but requires a warm burrow in cold weather. Alarm
call is a high-pitched squeal.
Life History
Mating and births occur during the warmer months.
Gestation is 1- 2.5 months; avgerage of 3 young are born. Babies can forage
for themselves after 3 days, but are nursed by the mother for 3 weeks. Life
span is 6-8 years. These are gregarious animals, found in small colonies.
Special Adaptations
Short legs with long claws for digging
burrows.
Compact body fits into small rock crevices where
predators cannot reach.
Large ears and acute hearing detect predators.
Continuously growing, chisel-like incisor (front)
teeth for gnawing hard food items.