Dot-winged Crake
NameDot-winged Crake
Common NameDot-winged Crake
Scientific NameLaterallus spilopterus
FamilyRallidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)35
Plumage DetailsThe head and underparts are dark grey, contrasting with a reddish-brown back and upperparts. The wings are dark brown with prominent white spots, giving it its common name. It possesses bright red eyes and a short, dark bill, with dull greenish-grey legs.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of soft, rapid clicks or trills, often described as a 'tik-tik-tik' or a 'trrrrrr'. These calls are typically given from within dense cover.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThe Dot-winged Crake is found in southeastern South America, including southern Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay, and northeastern Argentina.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size (14-16 cm), Dark grey head and underparts, Reddish-brown back, Prominent white spots on dark wings, Bright red eyes, Secretive behavior in dense wetland vegetation
Description
The Dot-winged Crake is a small, secretive wetland bird found in southeastern South America. It is characterized by its dark grey head and underparts, reddish-brown back, and distinctive white spotting on its wings. This crake typically forages in dense emergent vegetation near water.
