What types of animals eat Guinea Pigs?
Birds of Prey:
South America, where the guinea pig originates from, is home to a wide variety of raptors (birds of prey), many of whom feed on native rodents. Feeding guinea pigs to birds of prey may just provide a slightly different balance of proteins, minerals and other nutrients than the rats and mice more commonly fed in the US. Whether the raptor is a wild bird at a rehabilitation center, recovering from an injury or illness before being returned to the wild or a wildlife ambassador, who will live at the wildlife center or a zoo to teach people about birds and their habitat, feeding a variety of quality foods is one way to help ensure these beautiful birds stay healthy.
Thousands of sick, injured or orphaned birds of prey are rescued every year and brought to local Wildlife Rehabilitation facilities to be cared for until they can return to the wild. If you find an injured, sick or orphaned raptor, or any other wild animal, please contact your nearest local wildlife rehabilitator. You can view our list of wildlife rehabilitators to find the one closest to you.
Reptiles:
Snakes and lizards are also numerous in South America, including some of the common pets species such as boa constrictors and iguanas. These reptiles, and many others, often respond well to variety in their diet. By adding guinea pigs to supplement the rats, mice or day old chicks they normally get, your reptiles may just be a little less fussy at feeding time. And, given how little is really known about reptile nutrition, feeding a variety of foods makes it more likely that you’re feeding a balanced diet.
Wild Carnivore Diet:
Just as birds of prey may benefit from the inclusion of guinea pigs in their diet, wild carnivores, especially those species who normally prey on small rodents, are likely to enjoy them as a change of pace. And, like the raptors, many wild carnivores, particularly the small felines, are originally from South America, where they would have fed on close relatives of the guinea pig. In addition to changing the types of food offered, it’s never a bad idea to try and replicate the natural diet of any animal.
