Galápagos Rail
NameGalápagos Rail
Common NameGalápagos Rail
Scientific NameLaterallus spilonota
FamilyRallidae
Wingspan (cm)22
Length (cm)15.5
Weight (g)40
Plumage DetailsThe head, neck, and underparts are dark slate-grey. The back and wings are dark brown, heavily speckled with small white spots, particularly on the flanks. It has bright red eyes and a short, dark bill.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a rapid series of 'kip' or 'kek' notes, often described as a rattling or clicking sound, and a churring trill.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Galápagos Islands, primarily found in the humid highlands of larger islands such as Isabela, Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal, and Floreana.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size (15-16 cm), Dark slate-grey head and underparts, Dark brown back and wings with white speckles, Bright red eyes, Short, dark bill, Secretive, ground-dwelling behavior
Description
The Galápagos Rail is a small, secretive, and largely flightless bird endemic to the Galápagos Islands. It typically forages on the ground in dense vegetation, exhibiting a dark plumage with striking red eyes.
