Howard Lee, age 10, of Butte, Mt., for his question:

IS THE GUINEA PIG REALLY A PIG?

The guinea pig is not really a pig. It is the name of any of a group of furry South American mammals. They are rodents, as are beavers, rats and squirrels.

There are about 20 species of guinea pigs. Many people keep them as pets because the animals are easy to care for and they do not bite.

Guinea pigs measure from 10 to 14 inches long and weigh about one pound. They have a large head, small ears and short legs. Most guinea pigs that live in natural surroundings have long, coarse, brown or gray fur. Guinea pigs bred by man may have long or short fur of varying texture, colored black, brown, red or white or a combination of colors.

Pet guinea pigs should be kept in well ventilated cages and given dry grain, greens and hay to eat. Food and clean water should be available at all times.

Most wild females will have from one to four young. In captivity, as many as eight babies may be born at one time. The young weigh about three ounces at birth and are well developed. The mother cares for them for about three weeks.

Domestic guinea pigs may live up to eight years.