Ticks — their favorite food. Scientists confirmed the effectiveness of these birds in combating dangerous insects
Ticks are found not only in forests and parks but also in home gardens. Dogs and humans can get infected by them. However, there is a domestic bird that actively hunts ticks from morning till evening. Its effectiveness has been confirmed by American researchers, writes the Polish publication Murator.pl.
Guineafowl. Photo: freepik.com
We are talking about the Helmeted Guineafowl (Numida meleagris), which is called a natural tick destroyer. A scientific experiment was conducted on lawns in the suburbs of Long Island (New York State) under the guidance of David Cameron Duffy. Researchers compared areas where birds had access and those where they were isolated by special fences.
The results showed that in areas without guineafowl access, ticks were found significantly more often. Where the birds freely foraged, the number of ticks was significantly lower. The study also showed a reduction in the number of other insects and arthropods, which can reduce the need for chemical protection.
However, scientists also note the disadvantages of these birds:
- guineafowl effectively destroy adult ticks, but it is unknown how effective they are against larvae and nymphs;
- they are very noisy, which can create problems in residential areas;
- they require a fenced area, as they can become prey for other animals;
- their droppings can be inconvenient on lawns.
Researchers emphasize that guineafowl can be part of a comprehensive tick protection strategy, along with repellents and other preventive measures.
The guineafowl originates from sub-Saharan Africa. It arrived in Europe during the Roman Empire. In the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth, it was known since the Middle Ages, initially kept as an ornamental bird. Active breeding on farms began in the 20th century, but even today it remains a niche activity.
The bird has characteristic grey-black plumage with white spots, a colorful head, and a very loud call. Guineafowl are flock animals, so it's best to keep them in groups.
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Зімой нармальна жывуць, як і куры жывуць. І камбікорм ядуць, як куры.