Why do guinapigs popcorn?

Popcorning is a behaviour displayed by guinea pigs which consists of a series of small jumps or hops, often accompanied by a "popping" or clicking sound. While the exact motivation behind popcorning is still not fully understood, it is often seen in young guinea pigs, and is generally linked to positive emotions such as excitement, happiness, or general contentment. It is often observed during playtime, when they are exploring their surroundings, when receiving treats, or when interacting positively with a person or another guinea pig. Therefore, it can be interpreted as a form of playful or joyful expression by these small rodents.