Australasian Swamphen
NameAustralasian Swamphen
Common NameAustralasian Swamphen
Scientific NamePorphyrio melanotus
FamilyRallidae
Wingspan (cm)95
Length (cm)50
Weight (g)900
Plumage DetailsAdults have deep violet-blue plumage on the head, neck, and underparts, transitioning to a darker blue-black on the back and wings. They possess a bright red bill and a large, fleshy red frontal shield extending onto the forehead. The undertail coverts are conspicuously white, often flicked when walking. Legs and feet are reddish-orange.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include loud, harsh, often repeated 'kreek' or 'krr-ow' calls, especially when alarmed or communicating. They also produce softer clucking or grunting sounds.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across Australia, New Zealand, New Guinea, and various islands in the southwestern Pacific Ocean.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, Deep blue-purple plumage, Bright red bill and frontal shield, Long reddish-orange legs and feet, White undertail coverts, often flicked
Description
A large, robust waterbird with striking deep blue-purple plumage and a prominent red bill and frontal shield. It is often seen foraging in wetlands, characterized by its long reddish legs and a habit of flicking its white undertail.
