As tick populations continue to expand in Canada, more residents in Nova Scotia are seeking ways to safeguard their properties. One solution gaining popularity is the use of guinea fowl, unique birds with a penchant for insect consumption. Heather Squires, a guinea fowl breeder in Lunenburg, has experienced a surge in demand this year, selling out her stock of 70 keets due to increased interest in using the birds for tick control.
Despite Nova Scotia being identified as having the highest tick populations in Canada last year, veterinarians have noted a rise in tick-borne diseases like anaplasmosis over the past decade. Bruce Rathgeber, a professor at Dalhousie University, acknowledges the long-standing practice of using guinea fowl for tick management but emphasizes the need for additional strategies such as landscape maintenance for effective tick control.
While the effectiveness of guinea fowl in curbing tick populations is debatable, Rathgeber believes they can serve as a supplementary measure. Breeders like Phalen MacLean have observed reduced tick numbers with the presence of guinea fowl in their areas. However, challenges in breeding and housing guinea fowl exist, with the birds known for their loud nature and tendency to nest in unconventional locations.
To address these challenges, breeders recommend providing secure indoor spaces for the birds and ensuring adequate roaming areas. Prospective guinea fowl owners are advised to consider yard size and surroundings before acquiring the birds, as living near busy roads poses risks due to the birds’ lack of road awareness.
