About Cavia tschudii Fitzinger, 1857
Taxonomy and Size
The montane guinea pig (Cavia tschudii Fitzinger, 1857) is a medium-sized rodent, reaching a total length of 247 mm (9.7 in).
Fur Variation Overview
Its fur colour varies across its geographic range.
Peruvian Population Coloration
In Peru, the dorsal fur is dark reddish-brown mixed with black, and the underparts are dark buffy-grey.
Chilean Population Coloration
In Chile, the dorsal surface is pale agouti brown with paler underparts.
Bolivian Population Coloration
In Bolivia, the upper parts are agouti olive, and the underparts are creamy-white or white.
Native Range
This species is native to the high Andes of South America.
Geographic and Altitudinal Distribution
Its range extends from Peru southward to the Tarapacá Region of Chile and the Tucumán Province of Argentina, and it occurs at altitudes between 2,000 and 3,800 metres (6,600 to 12,500 ft) above sea level.
Habitat Preferences
It inhabits moist areas with rocks and coarse vegetation, where it creates runways through the foliage.
Burrowing Behavior in Argentina
In Argentina, it lives in burrows that have multiple entrances.
