Guam Rail
NameGuam Rail
Common NameGuam Rail
Scientific NameGallirallus owstoni
FamilyRallidae
Wingspan (cm)25
Length (cm)28
Weight (g)210
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are dark brown, while the head and neck are greyish-brown. A prominent white supercilium (stripe above the eye) contrasts with a dark eye-stripe. The flanks are distinctly barred with black and white stripes, and the underparts are generally greyish-brown, fading to white on the belly.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a variety of calls, including a loud, sharp 'kip-kip-kip' or 'ki-ki-ki' series, often given in alarm or territorial display. It also produces softer clucking and grunting sounds.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statuscritically-endangered
Geographic RangeEndemic to the island of Guam, Mariana Islands, where it became extinct in the wild due to predation by the introduced brown tree snake. Reintroduced to the nearby island of Rota and maintained in captive breeding facilities worldwide.
Identifying FeaturesFlightless, Prominent white supercilium (stripe above the eye), Dark brown upperparts, Distinct black and white barring on flanks, Greyish-brown head and neck, Long, dark bill
Description
The Guam Rail is a medium-sized, flightless rail endemic to Guam, characterized by its terrestrial habits and distinctive plumage. It forages in dense undergrowth, primarily feeding on insects and seeds. This species is known for its unique vocalizations and secretive nature.
