Purple Gallinule
NamePurple Gallinule
Common NamePurple Gallinule
Scientific NamePorphyrio martinica
FamilyRallidae
Wingspan (cm)52.5
Length (cm)32.5
Weight (g)220
Plumage DetailsAdults display iridescent purple on the head, neck, and underparts, transitioning to a metallic greenish-blue on the back and wings. They have a bright red bill with a yellow tip, a pale blue frontal shield, and white undertail coverts. The legs and feet are bright yellow.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of clucking, cackling, and grunting calls, often described as hen-like or frog-like.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsfreshwater marshes, swamps, ponds, wetlands
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the southeastern United States, Central America, the Caribbean, and tropical South America. Northern populations are migratory.
Identifying FeaturesVibrant purple and green plumage, Red bill with yellow tip, Pale blue frontal shield, Long yellow legs and feet, White undertail coverts, Often seen walking on floating vegetation
Description
The Purple Gallinule is a strikingly colorful marsh bird, known for its iridescent purple and green plumage and long yellow legs. It gracefully walks across floating vegetation in freshwater wetlands, foraging for a diverse diet.
