The Montane guinea pig (Cavia tschudii) is a species of caviid rodent found in the Andes in South America. It is the likely main ancestor of Cavia porcellus, the Domestic cavy or Domestic guinea pig, which appears to be a hybrid that includes lesser genetic contributions from other Cavia species.
The color of Montane guinea pigs varies in different parts of the range. In Peru, their dorsal fur is dark reddish-brown mixed with black, and the underparts are dark buffy-grey. In Chile, the dorsal surface is pale agouti brown with paler underparts. In Bolivia, the upper parts of these animals are agouti olive, and the underparts are creamy-white or white.
Montane guinea pigs are native to the high Andes in South America. Their range extends from Peru southward to the Tarapacá Region of Chile and the Tucumán Province of Argentina. Montane guinea pigs live in moist habitats with rocks and coarse vegetation, where they make runways through the foliage. In Argentina, they live in burrows with several entrances.
Not much is known about the habits of Montane guinea pigs. They are known to be social animals that live in groups of up to 10 individuals. They are active during the day or early morning and evening hours spending their time foraging, resting, grooming, and interacting with other members of their group.
Montane guinea pigs are herbivores (graminivores, folivores, frugivores). They eat grasses, fruits, and various plant materials.
Little is known about the reproductive behavior of Montane guinea pigs. After the gestation period of around 63 days, the female gives birth to a litter of 1 to 4 pups. The young grow quickly and become independent at 2 months of age.
There are no major threats to Montane guinea pigs at present.
According to the IUCN Red List, the Montane guinea pig is common throughout its range but no overall population estimate is available. Currently, this species is classified as Least Concern (LC) on the IUCN Red List and its numbers today are stable.
