Guinea pigs were domesticated over 5,000 years ago
Ancient Andean peoples domesticated guinea pigs over 5,000 years ago, transforming them into a crucial food source, cultural icon, and eventually, beloved pets worldwide.
Long before the Inca Empire, ancient peoples in the Andes domesticated guinea pigs over 5,000 years ago. These wild cavies were selectively bred into docile animals, providing a vital protein source in the high-altitude environment where larger livestock were scarce. They multiplied quickly, fed on kitchen scraps, and became deeply integrated into daily life.
There's more to this story — open the app to keep reading.
Continue Reading in App
1 more paragraphs · plus a 3-question quiz