Red-necked Crake

Overview

The red-necked crake is a large waterbird belonging to the rail and crake family, Rallidae. It is classified as a species of least concern due to its extensive range and lack of significant population decline.

Identification

• Length of approximately 25 cm with a wingspan of 40 cm and a weight of around 200 g.
• Head, neck, and breast are red-brown, with a paler throat, while upperparts are grey-brown and underparts feature pale barring.
• Green bill and grey-brown legs.
• Makes repetitive clicking calls and soft grunts.

Habitat

Found in tropical rainforests and dense vegetation close to permanent wetlands. Its range includes the Moluccas, Lesser Sundas, New Guinea lowlands and adjacent islands, and north-eastern Australia.

Diet

The bird's diet consists of amphibians, aquatic invertebrates, crustaceans and molluscs.

Did you know?

The species is little studied and seldom seen due to its secretive nature, yet it appears to be locally common in New Guinea. In Australia, however, it has suffered declines due to habitat loss.