Western Swamphen
NameWestern Swamphen
Common NameWestern Swamphen
Scientific NamePorphyrio porphyrio
FamilyRallidae
Wingspan (cm)95
Length (cm)50
Weight (g)850
Plumage DetailsPredominantly deep purple-blue plumage, often with an iridescent sheen, particularly on the head and neck. The back and wings can appear darker, sometimes with a greenish tint. It features a large, bright red bill and a prominent red frontal shield extending onto the forehead. The undertail coverts are conspicuously white, and its legs and feet are reddish-orange.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include loud, harsh, and often explosive calls, such as grunts, squawks, and shrieks. They can also produce softer clucking or cooing sounds, especially when communicating within a group.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across southern Europe, Northwest Africa, and parts of the Middle East, inhabiting freshwater wetlands and reedy areas.
Identifying Featureslarge red bill, red frontal shield, purple-blue plumage, white undertail coverts, red legs and feet
Description
The Western Swamphen is a large, robust waterbird characterized by its striking purple-blue plumage and prominent red bill and frontal shield. It typically forages in dense aquatic vegetation, moving with a distinctive high-stepping gait.
