Rufous-sided Crake
NameRufous-sided Crake
Common NameRufous-sided Crake
Scientific NameLaterallus melanophaius
FamilyRallidae
Wingspan (cm)22.5
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)40
Plumage DetailsFeatures a brown crown and upperparts, with striking rufous coloration on the sides of the head, neck, and breast. The throat and belly are white, while the flanks are distinctly barred with black and white. It has a greenish bill and brown legs.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of sharp, clicking notes that often accelerate into a trill, as well as various grunts and soft calls.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in Central and South America, ranging from Costa Rica south through much of tropical South America to northern Argentina and Uruguay.
Identifying FeaturesRufous sides of head and breast, Black and white barred flanks, Greenish bill, Small size, Secretive wetland behavior
Description
A small, secretive rail typically found in dense wetland vegetation. It forages actively on floating plants or at the water's edge, often flicking its tail. Its rufous head and breast contrast with its dark upperparts and barred flanks.
