Guinea pigs are domesticated descendants of wild and semi-domesticated rodents living in the highlands of north central and north west South America. They have been bred for over 400 years and are selected for color, hair-coat pattern, and disposition. They first became popular as pets in Europe around the 16 th Century.
Guinea pigs are strict herbivores, social and most active at twilight or before sunrise.
There are several color and hair-coat varieties of guinea pigs. These varieties may interbreed. They have long digestive tracts with large ceca. Male guinea pigs are called boars and females are called sows . No nest are built.