Pale-vented Bush-hen
NamePale-vented Bush-hen
Common NamePale-vented Bush-hen
Scientific NameAmaurornis moluccana
FamilyRallidae
Wingspan (cm)37.5
Length (cm)22.5
Weight (g)155
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are olive-brown, while the head, neck, and underparts are greyish, fading to a paler grey on the belly. The most prominent feature is the pale buffy-white undertail coverts (vent). The bill is greenish-yellow, and the long legs and feet are yellowish-green to olive.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of harsh cackles, grunts, and sharp 'kek' notes, often given in a rapid series. They can also produce a distinctive 'krek-krek-krek' call.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, forest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across Wallacea, New Guinea, northern and eastern Australia, and some islands in Southeast Asia, including the Philippines and Solomon Islands.
Identifying FeaturesPale buffy-white vent, Greenish-yellow bill, Long yellowish-green legs, Olive-brown upperparts and greyish underparts, Shy, skulking behavior
Description
The Pale-vented Bush-hen is a medium-sized, skulking rail with a drab olive-brown and grey plumage. It is characterized by its long yellowish legs, greenish bill, and a distinctive pale buffy-white vent. This shy bird typically forages in dense vegetation near water.
