Gough Moorhen
NameGough Moorhen
Common NameGough Moorhen
Scientific NameGallinula comeri
FamilyRallidae
Wingspan (cm)25
Length (cm)25.5
Weight (g)225
Plumage DetailsPredominantly dark sooty-grey to black plumage covers the body. It features a prominent bright red frontal shield and bill base, with a distinctive yellow tip to the bill. The legs and feet are bright red, and it has white undertail coverts.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of clucking, chattering, and piping calls, often described as quite vocal.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, wetland
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeEndemic to Gough Island in the South Atlantic Ocean, with an introduced population on Tristan da Cunha.
Identifying Featuresflightless, dark sooty-grey/black plumage, bright red frontal shield and bill base, yellow bill tip, bright red legs and feet, white undertail coverts
Description
The Gough Moorhen is a medium-sized, flightless rail endemic to Gough Island and introduced to Tristan da Cunha. It is characterized by its dark plumage, prominent red frontal shield, and strong red legs. This species is known for its inquisitive and bold nature, often seen foraging in dense vegetation.
