Native to sub-Saharan Africa, these fowl have been raised for food for centuries and have been introduced as both an agricultural and ornamental bird around the world, including North America. In the wild, guineafowl live in varied habitats which make them hardy and adaptable to many environments. They are particularly fond of dry, open areas with scattered trees and shrubs as well as savannas and farmland.

Ground feeders, guineafowl spend their days in flocks, busily scratching in pursuit of their omnivorous diet of seeds, berries, worms, insects and sometimes small mammals.

Female guineafowl build a nest of grass and twigs on the ground and incubate a clutch of 6 – 10 eggs for about 30 days. Newly hatched guineafowl are very small. Known as “keets”, the young follow their mother until they are big enough to fend for themselves.

They have a short, stout tail that aids in maneuverability when running and on short flights. They also have short, powerful, rounded wings that facilitate high speeds during their short flights, rather than long wings that are associated with soaring. The bony helmet or casque on their head serves as display and also for protection. Guineafowl are highly gregarious as they gather in groups of around 25. Strength in numbers increases foraging success and also protection from predators as they are better able to spot predators and sound an alert for each others' benefit. It is no surprise that they quite vocal and are known for their loud harsh calls when disturbed.