Guinea fowl, known for their wandering nature, generally require some form of fencing to keep them contained within a specific area. While they are more adapted to free-range living compared to chickens, it is important to provide them with boundaries to prevent them from straying onto neighboring properties or getting lost.
Without a proper fence, guinea fowl tend to roam and explore their surroundings, often venturing beyond their designated territory. They have a natural instinct to forage for their feed and are not inclined to stay within property lines. This behavior can cause inconvenience and potential conflicts with neighbors who may not appreciate guinea fowl wandering onto their land.
Training guinea fowl to stay within their designated area can be achieved through a process called “home training.” This involves providing regular feed and water in a specific location within their enclosure. By consistently feeding them in the same spot, they can learn to associate that area with their source of sustenance and are more likely to stay within its confines.
It is advisable to have a fenced yard or a designated space for guinea fowl where they can freely roam and forage while still being contained. The type of fencing used will depend on various factors such as the size of the area, the number of guinea fowl, and the level of protection required.
When considering fencing options, it is essential to choose materials that are sturdy and can withstand the guinea fowl’s natural inclination to scratch and peck. Chicken wire or hardware cloth with small openings can be effective in preventing them from squeezing through or escaping. Additionally, the fence should be tall enough to deter them from flying over, as guinea fowl have the ability to fly short distances.
In my personal experience, I have found that a combination of fencing and training works best to keep guinea fowl contained. I have a fenced yard with a secure gate, and within the yard, I have provided a designated area for their feed and water. By consistently feeding them in this spot, they have learned to associate it with their source of nourishment and have become accustomed to staying within the fenced area.
While guinea fowl have a natural inclination to roam and explore, it is important to provide them with a fenced area to prevent them from straying onto neighboring properties. By combining proper fencing with regular feeding and training, guinea fowl can be kept contained and their natural instincts satisfied within a designated space.