Guineafowl (Helmeted)

The Helmeted Guineafowl (Numida meleagris) – a true ally of farmers, a natural guardian of their crops. With a keen appetite for insects, it assumes the role of a diligent pest controller, sparing farmers the need for excessive pesticide use. During my birding and photography excursions, I often encounter these amusing birds with their distinctive bony casques on top of their heads, complemented by striking blue necks and vibrant red facial skin. On this particular occasion, I came accross one of these charming creatures engrossed in foraging amidst the tallish grass. The sun, with its tender touch, cast radiant rays upon the scene, creating an enchanting spectacle for me to immortalize through my lens. The lighting was perfect, unveiling the very essence of the moment, and allowing me to capture a truly remarkable photograph of this splendid avian companion.

In fields where crops sway, a friend unseen,
The Helmeted Guineafowl, nature’s serene.
A farmer’s ally, with feathers bright,
Controlling insects, day and night.

Its bony casque, a comic crown,
Blue neck, red skin, a vibrant gown.
In birding quests, I often roam,
To glimpse this beauty, far from home.

Amidst tallish grass, it forages free,
The sun’s rays dance, a sight to see.
A perfect moment, my lens does seize,
In this timeless portrait, I find my peace.