Water Rail

Rails, Crakes & Coots 👁 459 views Updated 2026-11-01

Water Rail (<em>Rallus aquaticus</em>) is a species of Rails, Crakes & Coots (<em>Rallidae</em>) in the order Cranes and Allies.

Overview

Water Rail (Rallus aquaticus) is a species of Rails, Crakes & Coots (Rallidae) in the order Cranes and Allies. A secretive brown marsh bird with a long red bill and striped flanks; skulks in reedbeds, more often heard than seen, with a distinctive squealing call; nests hidden among reeds.

Scientific Classification

Genus: Rallus; binomial: Rallus aquaticus; authority: Linnaeus, 1758. Typical size: 23-28cm. Average lifespan: 5-10 years.

Distribution

Breeding range: the Palearctic. Non-breeding range: n Africa to w s Asia.

Conservation Status

This taxon is listed as Extant (living) in the IOC World Bird List.

Remarks

No additional remarks recorded.

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