Okinawa Rail
NameOkinawa Rail
Common NameOkinawa Rail
Scientific NameHypotaenidia okinawae
FamilyRallidae
Wingspan (cm)0
Length (cm)35
Weight (g)390
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are dark olive-brown, contrasting with a black face and throat. A striking white stripe extends from the base of the bill, above the eye, to behind the ear coverts. The underparts are black with prominent narrow white barring on the flanks and belly. It has bright red eyes, a vibrant red bill with a pale tip, and strong orange-red legs and feet.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a variety of loud, distinctive calls, including a repeated "kyon-kyon-kyon" or "gyu-gyu-gyu" sound. They also produce a sharp, rapid "ki-ki-ki-ki-ki" alarm call, often heard at dawn and dusk.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeEndemic to the northern part of Okinawa Island, Japan.
Identifying Featuresflightless, dark olive-brown upperparts, black face and throat, prominent white stripe from bill to eye, bright red bill with pale tip, bright orange-red legs, red eyes, black and white barred flanks
Description
The Okinawa Rail is a medium-sized, flightless bird endemic to the northern part of Okinawa Island, Japan. It is a secretive species, typically found foraging in dense subtropical forests near water, using its strong legs to navigate the undergrowth.
