Red-chested Flufftail
NameRed-chested Flufftail
Common NameRed-chested Flufftail
Scientific NameSarothrura rufa
FamilySarothruridae
Wingspan (cm)21
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)32
Plumage DetailsMales have a distinctive rufous-chestnut head, neck, and breast. The rest of the body is dark brown to blackish, with prominent white spots on the back and flanks. Females are duller, with a streaked brown head and upperparts, and buffy underparts.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a distinctive, low-pitched, hooting or booming call, often described as 'hoo-hoo-hoo' or 'du-du-du', typically given at dawn or dusk from dense cover.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, found in suitable wetland habitats from West Africa east to Ethiopia and south to South Africa.
Identifying Featuresrufous head and chest (male), dark body with white spots on flanks (male), small size, secretive behavior, short tail, long toes
Description
A small, secretive rail characterized by its rufous-chestnut head and chest, contrasting with a dark, white-spotted body. It inhabits dense wetland vegetation, where it forages for small invertebrates and seeds, often remaining hidden from view.
