Brazilian guinea pig

Cavia aperea

NZ 26 08 20 ONB LR 76
IUCN Conservation Status –
Least Concern
Extinct In The Wild
Class: Mammals
Order: Rodentia
Family: Caviidae

You can find our group of Brazilian guinea pigs in the Village Farm.

Brazilian guinea pigs are native to savannah and open grassland across South America.

They are herbivores and feed on grasses and other herbs.

Interesting facts!

  • These rodents are social animals that live in small familial groups. Scent marking is used to mark an individual’s territory, ward off rival males and to attract potential mates.
  • After a gestation period of around 60 days, usually 2 well-developed pups are born. The young are able to fully move just a few hours after birth.

Conservation

The current population of this species is stable. Brazilian guinea pigs are medium-sized rodents that are important prey for big cats, raptors, snakes and lizards.