Lewin's Rail

Overview

Lewin's rail (Lewinia pectoralis) is a species of bird in the family Rallidae. It is a highly secretive bird that is protected under Australian law, though its conservation status varies by state. The species is also known by several alternative names, including the water rail and short-toed rail.

Identification

• Measures 18–27 cm in total length with a wingspan of 31–35 cm, with males averaging 88 g and females 82 g.
• The abdomen features barred black and white plumage, while the wings are mottled with 'black-to-chestnut' stripes.

Habitat

The bird prefers permanent, fresh-to-saline wetlands surrounded by dense vegetation, including artificial wetlands. Its range extends across Flores, Wallacea, New Guinea, and eastern, south-eastern, and western Australia, as well as Tasmania.

Diet

The diet consists mostly of earthworms, molluscs, and arthropods, with occasional consumption of amphibians and bird eggs.

Did you know?

The common name and Latin binomial of the species commemorate English naturalist and illustrator William Lewin. Additionally, the south-western Australian subspecies, L. p. clelandi, is presumed to be extinct.