Meet Our Animals
The Brandywine Zoo proves that great things do come in small packages. The Zoo features animals from the tropical and temperate areas of North and South America, Asia and Africa. Our animals range from more common species to the highly endangered. All enjoy natural settings and welcome your visit to the zoo. Some animals may be off exhibit during cold weather.
Numida meleagris
Helmeted Guinea Fowl
Habitat
Geographic Region & Range
Diet
Physical Description
The conspicuous horny “helmet” on top of their naked heads distinguishes this species. They have a bead-like design on their feathers that is consist of white dots on a darker background. The head region is brightly pigmented with blue, red, and yellow. A large stocky bird with a round body and small head. On top of the head is a dull yellow bony knob. Wattles fall on either side of their beak. The bill is short and stout; the wings are medium sized and rounded.
Size
Weight
Lifespan
6 years
Threats
Status
What are AZA Zoos doing for
Helmeted Guinea Fowl
Guinea fowl are part of the Galliformes Taxon Advisory Group (TAG). The mission of the AZA Galliformes TAG is to promote the exhibition, sustainable management, and conservation of birds within the Galliformes taxonomic order.
Fun Facts
Usually seen in large flocks, but walk through the bush in single file and imitate whatever the leader does.
Helmeted guinea fowl are the original birds from which domestic guinea fowl were bred.
This species gets its name from the horn “helmet” on the top of their head and the wattle on each side of their beak.
Guineafowl are mentioned in Greek mythology. Meleagros was the son of Oeneus, King of Calydon. According to legend, upon his death, his sisters were transformed into guineafowl.
