Is it worth adding guineas to my flock ?

[chick lovers]

I am wondering if it is worth adding guinea fowl to my flock and if they can defend my flock of 16 chickens ( 14 hens and 2 guys ) from dogs. Is it true that they, if big enough in numbers, can fend off a coyote or dog? Thanks in advance.

 

[ramirezframing]

they wont hang out with your chickens

 

[tadkerson]

I am wondering if it is worth adding guinea fowl to my flock and if they can defend my flock of 16 chickens ( 14 hens and 2 guys ) from dogs. Is it true that they, if big enough in numbers, can fend off a coyote or dog? Thanks in advance.

I agree with the above post. My experience with guinea fowl is that they are more alert than chickens. The guinea may see the danger before a chicken. The best way to take care of dogs and coyotes is to shoot the animal or keep your chickens in a predator proof pole barn or chicken house.

Tim

 

[chick lovers]

Ok thanks. Will the guineas hurt my chickens if I raise them with the chickens from babies?

 

[Iheartchickens7]

Hi, I raised my guineas with my chickens and when they were about 6 months old they became very aggressive. At first towards my rooster and then they turned on any chickens who were introduced to the flock after the guineas (lower pecking order I suppose). I suspect that they are responsible for the recent death of a chicken that they were brooded with as well.
I just separated everyone and gave the guineas a new coop. My chickens are MUCH happier without the guineas. They caused a lot of stress in the flock.
The guineas are much more alert than the chickens and will let you know if someone is in the yard that shouldn't be. That being said, I lost two chickens to predators and had one injured while the guineas were out with them so I wouldn't trust it completely.

 

[Henk69]

Guineas need their space. You could try a llama instead. If you add one to a flock of sheep they protect it against wolves!

 

[chick lovers]

Thanks for all the advice.