I've been reluctant to ask this question as there many lists like this all over the net. However, another question I had about cavies made that there isn't a good list of all synonyms and what information is availalbe isn't presented as clearly as one would hope. Therefore, I'm hoping this community can compile a comprehensive list of the onomatopoeias used.
What distinct sounds do guinea pigs make? and what onomatopoeias are commonly used to describe them?
1 Answer
Guinea Pig Onomatopoeias and Their Meanings
Weeak:
Synonyms: wheet. whistle, squeek
, squeel
Causes: Excitement, anticipation; a call for attention, usually in association food associated sounds, requests for help
Hesitant Week
Synonyms: Uncertain Beg
Causes: Unclean cage, or a guess that food is near by
Shriek (high pitched wheek)
Synonyms: scream, squeel
Causes: Pain, or great fear, or warning to stay away
Bubble
Synonyms: squeak
(shopping cart wheel)
Causes: Contentment, usually accompanied by occasional purring
Purr
Synonyms: Sometimes confused with a rumble
Causes: Happyness, Joy
Durr
Synonyms: Short Purr
Causes: Noises that frighten the guinea pig, annoyances
Rumble
Synonyms: Deep Purr, Coo
Causes: Mating call
Chut
Synonyms: Chubble, Mutter
Causes: Freedom, exploration, contentment
Whine
Synonyms: Moan, Complaining
Causes: A pig is disturbed by another in it's own cage, or dislikes the way a human is touching it.
Chirp
Synonyms: singing
Causes: Unknown; possibly because a guinea pig was startled, or just because
Chuffing
Synonyms: (teeth) chatter
Causes: Angry, Upset guinea pig with the potential to become hostile
Hissing
Synonyms: (none)
Causes: Anger, agitation; usually accompanies by teeth chattering.
References:
- [Jackie's Gunnie pigs]((http://www.jackiesguineapiggies.com/guineapigsounds.html) is a good reference that has recordings of many of the guinea pig noises.
- Guinea Linx
- Guinea Pig Cornner
- About.com
- Guinea Pig Manual also has example noises
- All about Guinea