Guineafowl

Guineafowl, often considered akin to "pet speckled hens" and native to Africa, belong to the Numididae family and old gallinaceous birds. These ground-nesting birds generally resemble partridges but can be recognized by their featherless heads, with some sporting distinctive black crests or patches. Their dark plumage typically features white spots, although this can vary. Guineafowl range in size, and females often weigh more than males. These predominantly monogamous birds usually form small groups or large flocks and show various intriguing behaviors, such as foraging behind herd animals or beneath monkey troops to control pest populations. They are strong fliers and use this ability to escape threats like bushfires. Guineafowl can obtain moisture from their food, allowing some species to survive without water for extended periods. They are also known to have different calls for each sex. In the wild, guinea cocks may assist hens in tending for the young. Domesticated guineafowl can be trained to roost in coops and are often kept to control pests like ticks, thus preventing diseases like Lyme disease. Found across sub-Saharan Africa in habitats ranging from savannas to forests, some species have also been introduced around the world for their meat or as pets. Guineafowl meat and eggs are prized for their rich flavor and nutritional value, with the meat offering more protein and less fat than chicken.