The Top 7 Animals With The Shortest Gestation Periods

Opposum: The Virginia opossum holds the record for the shortest gestation period among mammals, lasting only around 12 days, astonishingly brief for such a small marsupial.

Hamster: Hamsters have a gestation period of about 16 days, making them one of the animals with the shortest pregnancy duration, which aids in their ability to reproduce rapidly.

Mouse: Mice reproduce rapidly with a gestation period of approximately 19 days, allowing them to maintain large populations and adapt to various environments.

Rabbit: Rabbits have a short gestation period of around 30 days, contributing to their reputation for prolific breeding and abundance in the wild.

Rat: Rats reproduce quickly, with a gestation period of about 21 to 23 days, allowing them to adapt and thrive in various environments, including urban areas.

Guinea Pig: Guinea pigs have a gestation period of approximately 59 to 72 days, relatively short compared to other rodents of similar size, which contributes to their popularity as pets.

Ferret: Ferrets have a short gestation period of around 41 to 42 days, contributing to their popularity as pets due to their rapid reproduction and playful nature.