I Have Some Questions on Guinea Fowl

[Jediwalker]

I got some half grown guineas about two months ago, and I was wondering how long it took for them to mature. I have raised different types of poultry for a few years, but I am new to guinea fowl, and got what I think is a trio. They are not laying eggs yet, and the man who sold them to me said that I had one male and two females. If you have any tips on raising them I would appreciate hearing from you! I am planning to hatch and raise keets next year.

 

[red horse ranch]

Guineas are pretty much mature by 6 months old but females may not lay eggs until the following spring. Mine usually start to lay in April. I have heard of females laying their first eggs in the winter but I believe it is unusual. If you have two females you should be hearing the 'buckwheat' sound from them. I think it sounds more like 'goback goback goback'. The male will probably have much bigger wattles.

As for tips on raising them, they aren't that much different from other poultry. Except they do like to hide their nests and they will range a lot farther from their coop than chickens. They need layer mix once mature and a source of greenery all year. I usually get a bale of alfalfa to supplement the feed in winter.

Feel free to ask a lot of questions here. There is always someone who can give you an answer.

 

[Jediwalker]

Thanks for the tips! I really appreciate it!