Azure Gallinule
NameAzure Gallinule
Common NameAzure Gallinule
Scientific NamePorphyrio flavirostris
FamilyRallidae
Wingspan (cm)32
Length (cm)20
Weight (g)50
Plumage DetailsAdults display bright azure blue on the head, neck, and underparts, with a contrasting brownish-olive back and wings. The bill is yellowish-green, topped with a small red frontal shield. Eyes are red, and the long legs and feet are bright yellow.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations are generally soft and secretive, consisting of a series of low grunts, clucks, or short, sharp notes, often heard from dense cover.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across tropical South America, primarily east of the Andes, from Colombia and Venezuela south to northern Argentina and Paraguay, including Trinidad.
Identifying FeaturesAzure blue underparts, Brownish-olive back, Yellowish-green bill with red frontal shield, Red eyes, Long yellow legs and feet, Small size, Secretive behavior in dense wetland vegetation
Description
The Azure Gallinule is a small, secretive waterbird found in freshwater wetlands. It is characterized by its striking azure blue underparts, contrasting brown back, and bright yellow bill and legs. This species typically forages among dense floating vegetation.
