Water Rail
NameWater Rail
Common NameWater Rail
Scientific NameRallus aquaticus
FamilyRallidae
Wingspan (cm)41.5
Length (cm)25.5
Weight (g)140
Plumage DetailsAdults have slate-grey plumage on the face, throat, breast, and belly, contrasting with an olive-brown back streaked with black. The flanks are conspicuously barred with black and white stripes. It has a long, slender, reddish-orange bill with a dark tip, and reddish-brown legs.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its distinctive and varied vocalizations, including a characteristic pig-like squealing or grunting call, often described as 'sharm' or 'krrruitt'. It also produces various clicks and whistles.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across much of temperate Europe and Asia, and parts of North Africa. Northern populations are migratory, moving south for winter, while southern populations are resident.
Identifying Featureslong reddish bill with dark tip, slate-grey face and underparts, black and white barred flanks, olive-brown streaked back, secretive behavior in dense reeds
Description
The Water Rail is a medium-sized, secretive waterbird characterized by its long, reddish bill and grey underparts. It typically inhabits dense wetland vegetation, where it forages for invertebrates and plant matter, often remaining hidden from view.
