The common gallinule is a bird in the family Rallidae. It was split from the common moorhen by the American Ornithologists' Union in July 2011. It lives around well-vegetated marshes, ponds, canals, and other wetlands in the Americas. The common gallinule is one of the most conspicuous rail species in North America, along with the American coot.
Region
Americas
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern Canada through the United States, Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, and much of northern South America. Prefers freshwater and brackish wetlands with dense emergent vegetation such as cattails and reeds. Common in marshes, ponds, canals, rice fields, and urban park lakes. Nests are typically placed over water on platforms of reeds and other floating plant material.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Other
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The common gallinule, split from the Old World common moorhen in 2011, is a familiar rail of marshes and ponds across the Americas. It sports a vivid red frontal shield and bill tipped in yellow, making it one of the most striking rails to spot. Juveniles are duller brown with a pale throat, gaining adult colors as they mature. They often use floating vegetation for foraging and nest platforms and may show cooperative breeding with older offspring helping feed new chicks.
Temperament
wary yet bold around cover; territorial during breeding
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low over water; reluctant to fly unless flushed
Social Behavior
Typically forms monogamous pairs during breeding, with territories centered on dense emergent vegetation. Nests are built on floating platforms, and both parents incubate and tend chicks. In some populations, older offspring act as helpers at the nest.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Vocal repertoire includes sharp clucks, grunts, cackles, and a distinctive laughing series. Calls carry well over marshes and are often given at dusk and during territorial encounters.
