Where Did the Name Guinea Pigs Come From? 0 21

The guinea pig (Latin: Cavia porcellus) is a mammal belonging to the order Rodentia. In Russia and Germany, these animals are called guinea pigs (Meerschweinchen). In South American countries, they are known as cuy, in Western Europe as Peruvian pigs, and in the UK and the USA as guinea pigs.

The word "guinea" in the name of the animals originated from the initial term "overseas." These pigs were brought to Europe by sea and became a true exotic.

There are several theories about why this animal is called a pig. Firstly, they make sounds reminiscent of grunting or squeaking. According to another version, the name is related to the Spanish conquerors, who found the taste of these rodents' meat similar to that of milk pigs.