Rusty-flanked Crake

Overview

The rusty-flanked crake is a small rail endemic to Venezuela, currently classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. It belongs to the subfamily Rallinae and is the only member of its species, though some authors consider it part of a superspecies with the rufous-sided crake.

Identification

• Measuring 14 to 16.5 cm in length, the bird has dark olive brown upperparts. - The underparts are predominantly red, contrasting with a white throat and the centre of the breast. - Its song consists of an abrupt, loose churring, sometimes preceded by single notes described as "ti ... ti .. ti.ti.trrrrrrrrrrrrrr".

Habitat

Found exclusively in Venezuela north of the Orinoco River, it occupies wet lowland landscapes such as swamps, marshes, lagoons, lakeshores, and flooded pastures. It occurs at elevations between 20 and 600 m, predominantly along the coast and somewhat inland along the western flank of the Andes.

Diet

Specific dietary details are not fully documented but are assumed to resemble those of related species. It typically forages on the ground or in shallow water, feeding mainly on insects as well as seeds.

Did you know?

Although its population is believed to be decreasing due to threats like industrial waste and dam expansion, the conversion of forested regions to pastureland with water-bodies may actually favour this species. It is especially vocal during the morning, particularly between May and July.