Well, a new chapter for the farm. Another species of animal – this one loud and independent – is coming to Bedlam Farm next Spring. Five Purple Guinea Hens from the Cackle Hatchery in Missouri. Yes, we know, Guinea hens are loud, persistent, independent and fascinating. They are nothing like our regular hens.

Or any other animal we have had here.

And they devour pests.

Farmers say they are better guard animals than dogs or donkeys, they squawk and yell when strange people or animals come near the farm. They tend to choose their own roosts, but if we feed them in the barn, they will probably roost there. Or maybe in the apple tree, or maybe somewhere else. They race around in groups and sleep where they like.

They will not be our friends or our pets, they are not furbabies. And why are we getting them? Because we are strange, and they are strange, and their feistiness and independence suits us.

Loud and independent creatures belong at Bedlam Farm. Besides, they will clear the farm of ticks and fleas, and these days, that is no small thing, as it rarely gets cold enough long enough to kill off the ticks in the winter. And they will, of course, be great to photograph and write about.

They will also be a good match for Fate, she will regret it if she takes one step towards them, or try to train them. They are smart, maybe they can also herd sheep, although they resist instruction.

You can read more about them here, they also protect gardens from bugs and pests. And ticks beware.  I’ve been mulling Guinea hens for some time, I love their personalities, perhaps an interesting attachment issue. Maria is drawn to them as well, but they will not love her as the hens do, unless her pagan magic is even stronger than I think. I wouldn’t underestimate her, they may also love gourmet pasta.