Unbelievable story about a pig-like rat in South America

Adulthood, they weigh up to 60kg, equal to the weight of a sheep. In the world, the appearance of a mouse weighing 105.4 kg, was equal to that of a sow.

This rat species lives in the Panama region to Northeast Argentina, East Andes (South America). It is not only the largest mouse, but also the largest rodent in the world.

This rat is called a water hamster. The name is so, because it has the same appearance as the guinea pig and survives both on land and in water thanks to the foot membrane.

They adapt to swamps, ponds, wetlands, even in rivers and tropical forests. It has the ability to dive deep and hold its breath for 5 minutes under water.

Water guinea pig

The favorite food of guinea-pigs is bark, leaves, fruits, and aquatic plants. It is quite friendly to humans, so many people raise guinea pigs in the house as a scene. However, in the US, if you want to breed guinea-pigs in your home, you must have a special permit from the government.

They are highly organized species. People once found giant guinea-pig herds up to 100. However, normally each group has about 10 to 20 heads.

In many parts of South America, people hunt giant guinea pigs for food, making some leather items. Hamsters are loved in Venezuela. However, this giant mouse breeds well, so it is not in danger of extinction.

Guinea pig has a life expectancy of 8-12 years in natural conditions, but only 3-4 years in captivity.

Water guinea is a favorite of jaguars, wild cats, falcons and especially giant South American pythons.

Guinea Pig likes to mate under water. It is 130 to 150 days pregnant. Each litter usually spawns 1 to 8 pups, but it is common to be born 4. Although born, breastfeeding, hamsters have eaten grass. It weaned after about 16 weeks.

South American guinea pig

Giant hamster, weighing 105.4kg

Many places feed hamsters as pets

Guinea pig is hunted for food

Children enjoy playing with water guinea pigs

Water guinea pig family