We have two Guinea Pigs here at the park. They live with our Hermann’s and Leopard Tortoises and can often be found eating grass on their lawn by the T-Rex.

      

Guinea Pigs could live in rocky areas, grasslands and forest areas, although this breed is now domestic only and not found in the wild. They originated from South America, now domesticated worldwide.

Their diet consists of grass, vegetables, fruit and a pellet made from alfalfa or timothy hay.

Guinea Pigs can breed all year round and have up to 5 litters. Gestation lasts from 59 – 72 days with a litter size of 1 – 6 pups. Pups are born well developed and eat solid food immediately after birth, although they will still suckle. Pups reach maturity at 2 – 3 months old. 
Guinea Pigs can remember routes to food, even complex ones and after many months, they do not need to drink if they are fed moist food. They are also good swimmers!

As a least concern animal that is domesticated the main threat they face is from humans, lacking the full knowledge on how to care for their pet or realizing the commitment as Guinea Pigs can live up to 14 years (average 8 years). Many of them end up in the care of animal charities.

Guinea Pigs only spend about 4% of their day sleeping, and they only sleep for about 6 minutes at a time.