Watercock
NameWatercock
Common NameWatercock
Scientific NameGallicrex cinerea
FamilyRallidae
Wingspan (cm)47.5
Length (cm)38
Weight (g)350
Plumage DetailsBreeding males have dark slate-grey to black plumage with a prominent fleshy red frontal shield and a red bill base transitioning to a bright yellow tip. Their legs and feet are yellowish-green. Females and non-breeding males are duller, with brownish upperparts and barred buffy-white underparts, and a smaller or absent frontal shield.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include deep grunts, croaks, and a distinctive 'kok-kok-kok' or 'krr-krr-krr' call, often heard at dawn or dusk. During the breeding season, they may emit a loud, explosive 'kwa-kwa-kwa'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across South, Southeast, and East Asia, breeding from India and Sri Lanka east through Southeast Asia to southern China, Korea, and Japan. Northern populations are migratory, moving south for winter.
Identifying FeaturesProminent red frontal shield (breeding male), Dark grey to black plumage (breeding male), Red and yellow bill (breeding male), Long yellowish-green legs and feet, Secretive behavior in dense wetland vegetation
Description
The Watercock is a medium-sized rail found in Asian wetlands. Males in breeding plumage, as pictured, are striking with dark bodies, a prominent red frontal shield, and a yellow-tipped bill. They are typically shy, foraging in dense aquatic vegetation.
