Small, mischievous, and striking, it's the quintessential Peruvian rodent, as Peruvian history and customs are on its side. Today we'll learn a little more about the Cavia porcellus, the scientific name for the popular guinea pig. From a pet, an object of worship, a fixture in popular culture, and even a fixture on the dinner table, you'll be enchanted by everything this small animal represents.
Below, we'll share 6 facts you didn't know about the Peruvian Guinea Pig.
An Ancient Species
Although its average lifespan is 5 to 8 years, various discoveries prove that the guinea pig has been part of Peruvian history for thousands of years. For example, in the Temple of the Crossed Hands of Kotosh, located in the Huánuco region, remains of guinea pigs were found in the areas where burial offerings were made. These remains date back to 2500 BC, so guinea pigs have been with Peruvian ancestors for quite some time.
Different Names
In Peru, they are known as cuy (cuy). However, this is not the only name this small rodent receives throughout the world. For example, in English-speaking countries, this tender animal is called guinea pig. Guinea pig, cobaya, cuye, cuy, conejillo de indias, chanchito de indias, güimo, and acure are other names used to refer to this famous species.
Cute Pet
In the past, they were sacrificed to gods and dignitaries. Today, the guinea pig is also known as a pet that adapts very well to domestic life. A diet based on vegetables (celery, carrots, tomatoes, spinach, cucumbers, and alfalfa are their favorite foods) and plenty of water for them to drink or play with will ensure you have a happy rodent at home.
If you want to pamper them a little, you can give them fruits like apple, pear, banana, pineapple, watermelon, or kiwi, always sliced to make eating easier. Don't forget to set up a cage with a dark space for them to rest. Keep a clean, designated area for them to do their business to prevent them from getting constantly sick.
Rich in Nutrients
This part can be very painful for those who have a pet guinea pig. However, Peruvian tradition dictates that guinea pigs are also raised for human consumption. Their meat is full of protein and amino acids and contains almost no fat, providing the necessary nutrients to maintain a balanced diet.
Depending on the region of Peru you are in, the preparation style will vary. But the vast majority will offer you a succulent dish of fried guinea pig (also known as chactado), spicy guinea pig, baked guinea pig, or, with a fusion of oriental cuisine, a chijaucuy.
It Has Its Own Holiday
Since 2013, promoted by the Ministry of Agrarian Development and Irrigation (Midagri), National Guinean Guinea Pig Day is celebrated every second Friday of October in Peru. The purpose of commemorating the guinea pigs is simply to support the development of the activities in which the more than 800,000 guinea pig breeders and small-scale producers nationwide are involved.
Part of Peruvian Culture
Beyond the fact that various companies have used the guinea pig to bring funny characters to life, this rodent is embedded in various aspects of Peruvian popular culture. From the recreational, when they use a guinea pig for the popular game called tombola (where the animal chooses which "house" to go to); to the medical, when Peruvian ancestors used the guinea pig for alternative medicine, where they would "pass the guinea pig" to you to absorb your ailments.
Visiting Peru
Peru is a multi-diverse and extraordinary country that offers a wide range of tourist experiences throughout its length. This wonderful country isn't just limited to walls, archaeological sites, structures, and magnificent landscapes; cultures from over a thousand years ago still breathe here! Over a thousand years ago? You're probably wondering.
Let me tell you, my dear friend, that the above is true! Its cultures still live on, and it's thanks to its people that they can't die easily.
