Helmeted Guinea Fowl
Numida meleagris

Common throughout sub-Saharan Africa, helmeted guinea fowl gather in flocks of hundreds during the dry season. Group living helps to locate food and affords greater protection from predators. When a predator is spotted, these ground-dwelling birds call out loudly in alarm and clump together, fleeing on foot if the predator comes close.

Fact File

Pronunciation: HEL-met-ed GIN-ee foul

Length: 15.5 to 25 in

Weight: 2.5 to 3.5 lbs

Habitat: Savanna, woodland, scrubland, agricultural land

Diet: Seeds, roots, bulbs, berries, insects and other small invertebrates