Purple Gallinule
Image: John R. Finnerty (cc-by-nc)
NamePurple Gallinule
Common NamePurple Gallinule
Scientific NamePorphyrio martinica
FamilyRallidae
Wingspan (cm)53
Length (cm)33
Weight (g)200
Plumage DetailsAdults display brilliant iridescent purplish-blue on the head, neck, and underparts, contrasting with a greenish-bronze back and wings. The bill is bright red with a yellow tip, topped by a pale blue frontal shield. Legs and feet are bright yellow, and the undertail coverts are pure white.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of clucking, cackling, and grunting sounds, often described as a 'kek-kek-kek' or a 'krr-krr-krr' call, sometimes a squawking alarm call.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsfreshwater marshes, swamps, ponds, lakes, wetlands with dense emergent vegetation
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the southeastern United States, Central America, the Caribbean, and northern South America. Northern populations are migratory, moving south for the winter.
Identifying Featuresiridescent purple and blue plumage, bright red bill with yellow tip, pale blue frontal shield, bright yellow legs and feet, white undertail coverts
Description
The Purple Gallinule is a vibrant marsh bird known for its iridescent plumage and striking bill. It gracefully walks across floating vegetation in freshwater wetlands, often flicking its white undertail to reveal a flash of color.
