Gray-cowled Wood-Rail
NameGray-cowled Wood-Rail
Common NameGray-cowled Wood-Rail
Scientific NameAramides cajaneus
FamilyRallidae
Wingspan (cm)49.5
Length (cm)36.5
Weight (g)435
Plumage DetailsFeatures a gray head and neck, olive-green back and wings, and rich rufous (reddish-brown) underparts. The tail is black, and it has striking red eyes, bright red legs, and a bicolored bill that is yellow at the base and greenish at the tip.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a variety of loud, often raucous calls, including cackles, grunts, whistles, and clucking sounds, sometimes given in duets.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound throughout Central and South America, from Mexico south through Central America to northern Argentina and Uruguay.
Identifying FeaturesGray head and neck, Olive-green back, Rufous underparts, Red eyes, Bright red legs, Bicolored yellow and green bill
Description
This medium-sized rail is typically found in dense vegetation near water, often foraging along muddy banks. It is a shy bird but can be quite vocal, known for its loud and varied calls.
