African Rail
NameAfrican Rail
Common NameAfrican Rail
Scientific NameRallus caerulescens
FamilyRallidae
Wingspan (cm)42
Length (cm)29
Weight (g)175
Plumage DetailsThe head, neck, and underparts are dark slate-grey. The upperparts are olive-brown, contrasting with the grey. The flanks are conspicuously barred with black and white, and the undertail coverts are white. The bill is bright red with a dark tip, and the legs are dark brown.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a distinctive, loud 'krrrek' or 'krrraaa' call, often repeated, as well as various grunts, squeaks, and churring sounds.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound widely across sub-Saharan Africa, typically in suitable wetland habitats.
Identifying FeaturesLong, slender red bill with dark tip, Dark slate-grey head and underparts, Olive-brown upperparts, Conspicuous black and white barring on flanks, Dark legs
Description
The African Rail is a medium-sized, secretive waterbird found in wetlands across sub-Saharan Africa. It has a distinctive long, slender red bill and dark plumage, often foraging hidden within dense vegetation.
