Rufous-necked Wood-Rail
NameRufous-necked Wood-Rail
Common NameRufous-necked Wood-Rail
Scientific NameAramides axillaris
FamilyRallidae
Wingspan (cm)44
Length (cm)31.5
Weight (g)300
Plumage DetailsThe head and neck are a rich rufous (reddish-brown). The breast and flanks are grey, transitioning to olive-brown on the back and wings. The belly and undertail coverts are blackish. It has a yellowish-green bill with a darker culmen, reddish eyes, and prominent reddish-orange legs.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of loud, harsh, often accelerating 'kek-kek-kek' or 'kwa-kwa-kwa' notes, which may end in a trill. It also produces various grunts and squeals.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in coastal regions of Central and South America, ranging from Mexico south through Central America to Ecuador, and also present on the island of Trinidad.
Identifying FeaturesRufous head and neck, Grey breast, Olive-brown back and wings, Reddish-orange legs, Yellowish-green bill, Secretive behavior in dense coastal wetlands
Description
This medium-sized rail is characterized by its striking rufous head and neck, contrasting with a grey breast and olive-brown upperparts. It is a shy and secretive bird, typically found foraging for food in the dense vegetation of coastal wetlands.
