Purple Gallinule
Image: <a rel="nofollow" class="external text" href="https://www.flickr.com/people/52450054@N04">Judy Gallagher</a> (CC BY 2.0)
NamePurple Gallinule
Common NamePurple Gallinule
Scientific NamePorphyrio martinica
FamilyRallidae
Wingspan (cm)53
Length (cm)32
Weight (g)220
Plumage DetailsAdults have iridescent purple-blue plumage on the head, neck, and underparts, transitioning to a metallic green on the back and wings. The undertail coverts are bright white. It has a bright red bill with a yellow tip and a pale blue frontal shield extending onto the forehead. The eyes are red, and the legs and very long toes are bright yellow.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of clucking, cackling, and squawking calls, often described as a 'krr-krr-krr' or a 'kek-kek-kek' series. They also produce a loud, harsh 'krek' alarm call.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetlands, marshes, swamps, ponds
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in the southeastern United States (primarily Florida and the Gulf Coast), Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, and much of South America. Northern populations are migratory, moving south for winter.
Identifying Featuresiridescent purple-blue body, metallic green back and wings, bright red bill with yellow tip, pale blue frontal shield, long, bright yellow legs and feet, white undertail coverts
Description
The Purple Gallinule is a strikingly colorful marsh bird known for its iridescent plumage and long, yellow legs and feet, which allow it to walk across floating vegetation. It is often seen foraging in freshwater wetlands, gracefully stepping on lily pads and other aquatic plants.
