Guineas!

The latest additions to our barnyard family. The last time we had a guinea sitting on a nest a raccoon or fox (guessing from the method they were eaten) got all 17 eggs. So I was shocked to see one of our missing guineas show back up with these little buggers! They were not happy about being taken from their mother, but seemed to have calmed down this morning. Their mother was not happy about being separated from them - I have the scratches to prove it...... Hoping they make it since we lost 18 guineas this year.

This was a great opportunity to discuss the continent of Africa, how the climate is different there, and why. Guineas are not used to cold winters. It would be very hard for them to survive to adulthood if we left them with their mother going into winter. They are great for eating bugs, especially ticks! That is why we had so many this year. We had hardly any ticks, too. Here's a good site if you want to read up more on guinea fowl.

Chris also found another missing guinea this morning sitting on a nest of 15 eggs. I sure hope they hatch soon before it gets too cold!

In other country news Tamarin killed a brown recluse in the toy room this morning - That's my girl!! She can save daddy from the big bad spiders for now on :) On a happier note, it's a dress up kind of morning, hope everyone enjoys their Tuesday....