The black crake is a waterbird in the rail and crake family, Rallidae. It breeds in most of sub-Saharan Africa except in very arid areas. It undertakes some seasonal movements in those parts of its range which are subject to drought. No subspecies have been described. It appears that the oldest available name for this species is actually Rallus niger J. F. Gmelin, 1788, but Swainson believed that the earlier name was unidentifiable, and his own has since become well embedded in the literature.
Region
Sub-Saharan Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs widely wherever permanent or seasonal freshwater is available, including marshes, reedbeds, papyrus swamps, river edges, lake shores, farm dams, and rice fields. It avoids very arid regions lacking emergent vegetation. The species often forages on floating mats of vegetation and along muddy margins with dense cover. It adapts well to human-modified wetlands provided there is adequate cover and shallow water.
Altitude Range
0–3000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A small rail of sub-Saharan Africa, the black crake is notable for its all-black plumage, vivid red eyes and legs, and bright yellow bill. It is often bolder and more visible than many rails, frequently venturing into the open and flicking its tail to reveal white undertail coverts. Pairs maintain territories in marshy margins and can be seen walking across floating vegetation with long toes. It makes local seasonal movements in response to rainfall and wetland availability.
Temperament
Often confiding near cover but can be wary; territorial in pairs.
Flight Pattern
Short, low flights with rapid wingbeats; reluctant flier, prefers to run through cover.
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs, maintaining small territories along wetland margins. Nests are built as platforms or bowls of vegetation concealed in reeds or grasses. Both sexes share incubation and brood care, and downy black chicks follow parents soon after hatching.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Vocal, with harsh, squeaky, and grating notes often given in duets. Calls carry over wetlands, especially at dawn and dusk, and include sharp alarm notes from cover.
