Limpkin
Image: David Garza (cc-by)
NameLimpkin
Common NameLimpkin
Scientific NameAramus guarauna
FamilyAramidae
Wingspan (cm)104
Length (cm)68.5
Weight (g)1175
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is dark brown overall, heavily streaked and spotted with white, particularly on the head, neck, and back. The primary feathers are dark, and the bill is yellowish-green at the base, darkening to black at the tip, with a slight decurve.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its loud, wailing, and mournful calls, often described as 'kree-ow' or 'cur-r-rao', which can be heard over long distances, especially at dawn and dusk.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsfreshwater wetlands, swamps, marshes, mangroves, along slow-moving rivers
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the southeastern United States (primarily Florida), the Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, and throughout much of South America.
Identifying Featureslong legs and neck, slightly decurved bill, dark brown plumage with white streaks and spots, loud, wailing call, specialized diet of apple snails, often seen wading in shallow water
Description
The Limpkin is a large, dark wading bird with long legs, a long neck, and a distinctive slightly decurved bill. It is often found in freshwater wetlands, where it specializes in feeding on apple snails. Its presence is often revealed by its loud, wailing calls.
