Crested Guineafowl

About This Animal

Crested guineafowl are named for the black, ruffled crest of feathers on their heads. Their bodies are black with small white spots, and they have bare pale blue skin on their necks and exposed red skin around their eyes. These birds can be between 1.5–1.8 feet long and weigh up to 3.5 pounds.

These birds stay in one general area year-round but may cover large distances during the day in their native savannas and forests in search of food. They are less vocal than other species, but they are social, living in groups of up to 30 individuals. They can swim and like to do so during hot parts of the day; they may also simply take cover in shaded spots.

Males dance to attract mates; a pair will stay together for life. Their nests are simple scrapes in the ground, built away from the group. Egg-laying takes place during the rainy season, and the three to four eggs hatch after about four weeks of incubation. Once the chicks are ready to fly at around 20 days old, the family rejoins the larger social circle.

Crested guineafowl have a large range and appear to be relatively common. Their total population is considered stable but has not been properly assessed.