Slaty-breasted Rail

Overview

The slaty-breasted rail (Lewinia striata) is a medium-sized rail native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. It is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Measures 25–30 cm in length and weighs 100–142 g.
• Features a chestnut crown and nape, a blue-grey breast, and a long, reddish bill.

Habitat

Found primarily in wetlands up to elevations of typically 1,000 m, reaching up to 1,850 m in Sri Lanka. Its range covers the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia.

Diet

Feeds on worms, molluscs, crustaceans, and the seeds of marsh plants.

Did you know?

Chicks are able to leave the nest soon after hatching, though they remain dependent on their parents for food and care.