Limpkin
NameLimpkin
Common NameLimpkin
Scientific NameAramus guarauna
FamilyAramidae
Wingspan (cm)104
Length (cm)65
Weight (g)1100
Plumage DetailsOverall dark brown plumage, heavily streaked with white, especially on the head, neck, and back, giving it a mottled appearance. The feathers on the back and wings have white centers, creating a striped effect. The bill is yellowish-brown with a darker tip.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its loud, wailing, and mournful calls, often described as a 'ker-r-r-ee-ow' or 'cour-r-r-ee-ow', which can be heard both day and night.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsfreshwater wetlands, swamps, marshes, slow-moving rivers, ponds, canals
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the southeastern United States (primarily Florida and parts of Georgia), throughout the Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, and much of South America east of the Andes.
Identifying FeaturesLong, slightly decurved bill, Long legs and neck, Dark brown plumage with extensive white streaking, Distinctive 'limping' gait, Loud, wailing call, Prefers freshwater habitats and specializes in eating apple snails
Description
The Limpkin is a large, long-legged wading bird with a distinctive long, slightly decurved bill. It is typically found in freshwater wetlands, where it specializes in feeding on apple snails. Its gait is often described as 'limping', giving it its common name.
