Charity steps in after accidental guinea pig boom

An animal charity has taken in dozens of guinea pigs after an accidental population boom in a woman's home left her with more than 200 of the rodents.

The "overwhelmed" owner, who is based in Wales, reached out for help after the number of guinea pigs hit 224.

Rescue centres across the country stepped in to help, with 56 taken in by Blue Cross in Burford, Oxfordshire.

That number has already risen to 68 as some of the guinea pigs - most of whom are female - were pregnant on arrival.

That number is likely to grow further, with other pregnant guinea pigs confirmed in the group.

Anouska Ashmead Bartlett, admissions coordinator at Blue Cross, said the sheer number of guinea pigs had doubled the number of small animals they have on site.

"People on other sections and management have been supporting with their care," she said. "It's been a real team effort."

The charity thanked the owner for contacting them and other charities for their support - confirming that all of the guinea pigs had been moved to rescue centres.

Bartlett said: "We'll be looking for loving new homes for them once they're ready."

Guinea pigs are prolific breeders, with females able to become pregnant as early as four weeks of age.

Pregnancy lasts between 59 and 72 days and females are able to get pregnant again within hours of giving birth.