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Guinea Pig
Cavidae
Guinea pigs range and habitat was South America but in the 16th century, Dutch sailors introduced them to Europe and they were brought to the US in the early part of the 17th century. They are rodents but are also known as cavies. They are no longer found in the wild but are often raised for pets. They prove to be gentle and entertaining.
Guinea pigs have 2-6 babies after a 68 day gestation period. They are born with hair and are able to groom themselves immediately. At 1 day of age, they are able to eat solid food and as adults, they grow to 10-12 inches long and weigh about 2 pounds.
Their diet in the wild was vegetation while in captivity, they eat pellets, carrots, apples, oranges and kale.
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