Something I have noticed...

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You know how guineas like certain types of veg, some like this or that and others won't touch it? well, Fifi and Mimi used to live as a pair and would not touch mint, dill or basil, absolutely no way :{ Since they have had Georgie and Mimi join the herd (who both love these herbs) I have noticed that Fifi and Mimi also now wolf them down!

What is the reason? I can only think it is either a copying type behaviour or a "grab it before the others get it" (survival) type behaviour....so can guineas actually distinguish taste or is it down to what the herd eats/what is available? Just wondered as I do love observing their behaviour....
 
Yes, my piggies tend to do that aswell.
It's a case of - I don't know that thing so I don't eat it but if someone else is eating it it must be ok then.
They will still have favourites but they eat now whatever I dish up.
 
Lmao Lavender I read "you know how guiness likes certain types of veg..." I was sooo confused there ! Lol
 
I had to look then to see if I had spelt it wrong!:)) It wouldn't surprise me, I am an airhead at times :{
 
I love guiness! My folks are from Co Cavan ;) so a good bit of the Irish in me too :))
 
I read somewhere (Peter Gurney?) that pigs are very cautious about new foods, because they can't vomit so if they eat anything poisonous, they're in trouble - it said that they will eat foods if they see other pigs eating them, and I've found the same thing as you - some pigs who don't like veg really start pigging it once they live with others!

Sophie
x
 
I have noticed the same thing. The only thing I can think of is that guinea pigs' eating behaviours and habits are very much influenced by those living with them.
 
It actually very clever! Lots of little rodents survive this way - rats have been shown to be able to smell yummy food on another rats breath, and head straight for it! It'd be interesting to see if they smell it or just observe!

Piggies are complicated little beasties, when you get right down to it!
 
I reckon that mine are like the kids - they don't really want it but don't want the others to have it either so gobble it down damn quick!
 
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