Our guinea pigs are a firm favourite with younger visitors. They are gentle, friendly, full of character and plan an important role in our animal handing sessions.
Many guests enjoy holding, stroking and learning more about guinea pigs during a visit to Yeatheridge.
Animal Handling at Yeatheridge Farn
Our animal handling sessions give families the chance to meet a variety of friendly farm animals while learning about life on a working farm. Alongside guinea pigs, you’ll have the opportunity to meet rabbits, chickens, goats and other animals depending on the time of year.
Facts About Guinea Pigs
Guinea Pigs are not from Guinea… and are not related to Pigs!
In fact, guinea pigs originate from the Andes region of South America. And even though male guinea pigs are called boars and females are called sows, they are rodents.
• Guinea Pigs can break dance.
Well, not quite, but when they are excited, guinea pigs can jump straight up and down, often turning 90° in mid-air, performing a slick little move known as ‘pop corning’ (although they don’t actually EAT Popcorn at all).
• Speaking of which… What do Guinea Pigs eat?
They love lots and lots of grass hay, along with small handfulls of leafy greens, such as dandelions, spinach, kale and broccoli. Guinea Pigs are mini grazers so not only will the grass hay help their digestive system – it also helps keep their teeth the right length!
• Guinea Pigs love to chat to each other
While they enjoy human affection, guinea pigs need to be with others of their own kind and should always be kept in pairs or small groups. They communicate using several noises, including the well-known ‘wheek-wheek’ call – a sign of excitement or to find a friend – and a low ‘purring’ sound, which they make when they are feeling content and chilled out. They also emit a series of short ‘putt-putt’ noises when they are exploring.
• They only sleep for short periods
Guinea pigs are awake for up to 20 hours of the day! This means they need constant access to food, water, companion guinea pigs, safe hiding places and toys to keep them occupied.
• Guinea Pigs have an arch nemesis… the Rabbit!
Not only will rabbits bully guinea pigs, they have very different needs. Rabbits can also carry diseases which can be very harmful to guinea pigs.
