Dusky Moorhen
NameDusky Moorhen
Common NameDusky Moorhen
Scientific NameGallinula tenebrosa
FamilyRallidae
Wingspan (cm)75
Length (cm)37.5
Weight (g)475
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is predominantly dark sooty-grey to black over the body, with contrasting white undertail coverts that often show a black central stripe. The bill is bright red with a yellow tip, extending into a prominent red frontal shield on the forehead. Legs and feet are a striking orange-red.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of harsh, croaking, and cackling calls, often described as 'krrruk' or 'krrrk-krrrk'. They also produce softer clucking sounds, especially when foraging or communicating with their young.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThe Dusky Moorhen is native to eastern and southwestern Australia, New Guinea, and parts of Indonesia.
Identifying FeaturesDark sooty-grey to black body plumage, Bright red frontal shield and bill with a yellow tip, Orange-red legs and feet, White patches on the undertail coverts
Description
The Dusky Moorhen is a medium-sized, dark-plumaged waterbird characterized by its distinctive red frontal shield and bill, tipped with yellow, and bright orange-red legs. It is commonly found in freshwater wetlands, where it forages for food along the water's edge or swims gracefully.
