Sora
NameSora
Common NameSora
Scientific NamePorzana carolina
FamilyRallidae
Wingspan (cm)33
Length (cm)22.5
Weight (g)85
Plumage DetailsAdults have a gray face and breast with a prominent black mask extending from the forehead to the throat. The crown and nape are brownish, and the back is olive-brown with black streaks and fine white spots. The flanks are distinctly barred with black and white, and the undertail coverts are white. Legs are greenish-yellow.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its distinctive, often-repeated 'sora' call, which is a descending whinny. It also produces a sharp, clear 'kip' note and a series of 'ker-wee' calls.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across much of Canada and the northern United States. Winters in the southern United States, Mexico, Central America, and northern South America.
Identifying Featuresshort yellow bill, black face mask and throat, gray breast, barred flanks, greenish legs, secretive wetland behavior
Description
The Sora is a small, secretive marsh bird with a distinctive short, bright yellow bill and a black face mask. It typically forages in dense wetland vegetation, often walking on floating plants or along muddy edges, making it difficult to spot.
