Help me identify a strange bird?

Question

I saw a bird in Illinois wandering in a parking lot like one I have never seen. It couldn't fly and had a huge round body with a small head and a bit of plummage on its head. It was gray or tan. The apartments have many Indian families and I am thinking it may be one of their pets as it is unlike any bird I have ever seen. Can you offer me any help so I can investigate further?

Answer 1

Check a bird book or a local pet store.

Answer 2

could it have been a guinea? they have big round bodies and tiny heads,they are usually grey and white but sometimes white. I used to have a large flock and they are great about letting you know if anything is going on.

Answer 3

Sounds like the Indian Silverbill. Here's a pic in case you wanna look.