Brown-cheeked Rail
NameBrown-cheeked Rail
Common NameBrown-cheeked Rail
Scientific NameHypotaenidia indicus
FamilyRallidae
Wingspan (cm)41.5
Length (cm)28
Weight (g)155
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are olive-brown with dark streaking, while the face and cheeks are a rich, contrasting brown. The throat is white, and the underparts are greyish, transitioning to prominent black and white barring on the flanks. The bill is bright red with a darker tip, and the legs are dull greenish-yellow.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of sharp, clicking or grating notes, often described as 'krek-krek-krek' or 'chick-chick-chick', which can accelerate into a trill. They also produce various grunts and squeals.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in East Asia, including Japan, Korea, northeastern China, and southeastern Siberia. It is a migratory species, wintering in Southeast Asia, including southern China, Indochina, Thailand, and the Philippines.
Identifying Featuresbrown cheeks, red bill with dark tip, black and white barred flanks, olive-brown upperparts, secretive behavior in dense wetland vegetation
Description
A medium-sized, secretive rail characterized by its distinctive brown cheeks, olive-brown upperparts, and a bright red bill. It typically inhabits dense wetland vegetation, where it forages for a variety of invertebrates and plant material. This species is often heard more often than seen due to its shy nature.
