Rouget's Rail
NameRouget's Rail
Common NameRouget's Rail
Scientific NameRougetius rougetii
FamilyRallidae
Wingspan (cm)32
Length (cm)22.5
Weight (g)140
Plumage DetailsThe head and neck are dark grey, transitioning to dark olive-brown on the back and wings. The underparts are a striking rufous-chestnut, contrasting with prominent white undertail coverts. It has a bright red bill and reddish eyes.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a distinctive series of sharp, high-pitched "kik-kik-kik" notes, which often accelerate into a rapid trill or rattle.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, wetland, mountain
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Ethiopian Highlands, primarily found in the central and western parts of Ethiopia.
Identifying Featuresrufous-chestnut underparts, dark olive-brown upperparts, dark grey head and neck, bright red bill, white undertail coverts, short tail, shy and secretive nature
Description
A medium-sized, shy rail endemic to the Ethiopian Highlands, characterized by its striking rufous-chestnut underparts and dark olive-brown upperparts. It inhabits high-altitude grasslands and wetlands, foraging for invertebrates and plant matter.
