Spotless Crake
NameSpotless Crake
Common NameSpotless Crake
Scientific NamePorzana tabuensis
FamilyRallidae
Wingspan (cm)24
Length (cm)18
Weight (g)50
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is predominantly dark sooty-grey to blackish, with a noticeable brownish wash on the back and wings. The undertail coverts are often rufous or chestnut. It has bright red eyes, a dark bill, and reddish-brown legs and feet.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include sharp 'kik' notes, trills, and growls, often given from dense cover. Calls can be difficult to pinpoint due to the bird's secretive nature.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across the Indo-Pacific region, including Southeast Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and numerous Pacific islands.
Identifying Featuressmall size, dark sooty-grey/black plumage, bright red eyes, reddish-brown legs, brownish wash on back and wings, secretive behavior in dense vegetation
Description
The Spotless Crake is a small, secretive rail characterized by its dark plumage and striking red eyes. It typically forages in dense wetland vegetation, often seen with its tail cocked, searching for invertebrates and seeds.
