Aztec Rail
NameAztec Rail
Common NameVirginia Rail
Scientific NameRallus limicola
FamilyRallidae
Wingspan (cm)35
Length (cm)23.5
Weight (g)80
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are streaked black and brown, with a reddish-brown face and neck. The flanks are distinctly barred with black and white, contrasting with a buffy belly. The bill is reddish-orange with a darker tip.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a distinctive series of 'kid-ick' or 'tick-it' notes, often accelerating, and a pig-like 'wack-wack-wack' call, especially at night.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across much of North America, from southern Canada through the U.S., and winters in the southern U.S., Mexico, and Central America. Some populations are resident in the western U.S.
Identifying Featuresreddish-brown plumage, long, decurved reddish-orange bill, distinctly barred black and white flanks, secretive wetland behavior
Description
This secretive marsh bird is characterized by its slender body, reddish-brown plumage, and a long, slightly decurved reddish-orange bill. It typically forages for invertebrates and seeds in dense wetland vegetation, often heard before it is seen.
