Guinea hens are ground-dwelling birds that stand out among poultry. Originating from Africa, these birds possess unique head structures and varied plumage. Their overall look is quite different from more common fowl, often catching the eye with their unusual proportions and patterns.
Unique Physical Characteristics
Guinea hens possess several striking physical attributes. Their head and upper neck are largely unfeathered, revealing skin that can range in color from pale blue to reddish hues. This bare skin often appears leathery or textured.
A prominent feature on top of their head is a bony growth known as a casque, which resembles a helmet. This casque varies in size and shape depending on the species and individual bird, often appearing dull yellow or reddish. Complementing the casque are fleshy appendages called wattles, which hang from either side of their face near the beak. These wattles are typically bright red, sometimes with blue or sky-blue at the tips. Their body shape is generally rounded and compact, with an upright posture.
Common Plumage Varieties
The plumage of guinea hens, while often speckled, comes in several distinct varieties. The most widely recognized is the “Pearl” guinea, characterized by dark gray or purplish-gray feathers densely covered with small, round white spots, creating a “pearled” effect across their body. This pattern is considered the natural coloration of their wild ancestors.
Another common variety is the “Lavender” guinea, which displays a lighter, steel-gray or pale purple plumage with white dots, similar to the Pearl but with a softer, bluish tint. “White” guineas are also prevalent, featuring pure white feathers without any speckling. Other less common varieties include “Royal Purple,” which has a darker, often iridescent purple hue, and “Coral Blue” or “Porcelain,” showcasing softer blue-gray feathers with white speckles.
Size and Sex-Specific Distinctions
Guinea hens are medium-sized birds, typically ranging from 16 to 28 inches (40-71 cm) in length. Their weight generally falls between 1.5 to 3.5 pounds (0.7-1.6 kg). While males and females often appear similar in plumage, subtle differences exist, particularly in their head structures and vocalizations.
Male guinea fowl, known as cocks, tend to have a larger and more prominent casque than females. Their wattles may also be larger, more elongated, and sometimes fold upward, whereas female wattles usually appear smaller and flatter. Although not a visual cue, vocalizations are a reliable way to differentiate sexes: females produce a distinct two-syllable call often described as “buckwheat,” which males typically do not make. Males usually make a single-syllable “chek” or “chi” sound, which females can also sometimes imitate.