io6 BIRDS 



Since the recent prohibitions of the sale of game have 

 come into effect, there has been an increasing demand for 

 young ■ guinea-fowl. These birds are well-flavored and 

 gamey, and there is no doubt that a profitable business 

 can be developed to supply this demand. 



Of the guinea-fowls closely related to the common species, 

 the Mitred (N. mitrata) and the Abyssinian {N. ptilor- 

 hyncha) are the only ones usually seen in captivity. No 

 serious attempt has been made to domesticate either, for 

 although they live well, they are less hardy than their con- 

 gener. The chief differences lie in the shape and color of 

 the head appendages, the body color being very similar 

 in all. 



The Crested Guinea-fowl {Gutter a) has the head orna- 

 mented with a full crest of soft, curling feathers, instead 

 of a horny helmet. The best known species are the Black- 

 collared {G. cristata) and the Curly-crested (G. pucherani). 

 These birds seldom live for more than a few years under 

 the conditions of confinement. They require a large amount 

 of insect food, as well as fruit, and must be provided with 

 heat during cold weather. As aviary birds, they are orna- 

 mental and attractive. 



The handsomest of all the guinea-fowls is the Vulturine 

 (Acryllium vulturinum) . This bird is somewhat larger than 

 the other species. It has the head and upper neck entirely 

 free of feathers and appendages, except for a small patch 

 on the nape. The feathers of the neck and breast are 

 elongated and pointed, with white centers and black and 

 cobalt edgings. Those of the lower breast and abdomen are 

 cobalt with black centers, and the sides have a shade of 

 purple. Otherwise the plumage is much like that of the other 

 guinea-fowl. While the Vulturine requires warmth in win- 

 ter, it is much easier to care for than the crested species. 

 It seems quite satisfied with grain and an occasional 



