Barred Rail
NameBarred Rail
Common NameBarred Rail
Scientific NameHypotaenidia torquata
FamilyRallidae
Wingspan (cm)42.5
Length (cm)29
Weight (g)175
Plumage DetailsThis rail has a black head with a broad white supercilium extending to the nape and a white throat. Its upperparts are olive-brown, while the breast and flanks are boldly barred black and white. It has reddish-brown eyes, a dark bill, and dark legs.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of loud, harsh, grating notes, often accelerating into a rapid 'krek-krek-krek' or 'kek-kek-kek' call.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Philippines, Sulawesi (Indonesia), and some smaller surrounding islands including Sangihe and Talaud.
Identifying Featuresblack head with white supercilium, white throat, bold black and white barring on underparts, reddish-brown eyes, olive-brown upperparts
Description
The Barred Rail is a medium-sized, secretive rail with striking plumage. It typically forages on the ground in dense vegetation, often near water, searching for invertebrates and plant matter.
