The Gough moorhen is a medium-sized, almost flightless bird that is similar to the common moorhen, but is smaller, stockier, and has shorter wings. The bird has a distinctive yellow-tipped red bill and red frontal shield. Its first account was written in 1888 by the polar explorer George Comer, whom the specific name comeri commemorates. This bird is found only on two remote islands in the South Atlantic.
Region
South Atlantic, Tristan da Cunha archipelago
Typical Environment
Naturally confined to Gough Island, where it occupies dense fern-bush, upland heath, tussock grass, and boggy stream margins from coastal areas to high plateaus. It often forages along seepages, peat bogs, and among boulder fields near the coast. The species has an introduced population on Tristan da Cunha’s main island, using similar dense cover and wet margins around seeps and pasture edges. It readily utilizes areas around seabird colonies to feed on invertebrates and organic matter. Human habitation is minimal in its range, and the bird favors remote, thick vegetation for nesting and shelter.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 900 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Gough moorhen is a near-flightless rail-like gallinule endemic to Gough Island, with a stocky build, short wings, and a yellow-tipped red bill with a red frontal shield. It naturally occurs only on Gough Island but was successfully introduced to Tristan da Cunha to replace the extinct Tristan moorhen. It is a versatile omnivore that forages in dense vegetation and around seabird colonies. Its restricted range makes it sensitive to invasive predators and habitat changes.
Temperament
skulking and wary
Flight Pattern
weak flier with short, fluttering hops; prefers to run
Social Behavior
Typically forms territorial pairs with strong site fidelity, especially during the breeding season. Nests are built low in dense vegetation, often near water or in damp tussock. Both parents share incubation and chick-rearing duties. Outside breeding, small family groups may forage together while remaining close to cover.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include sharp clucks, squeaks, and cackling scolds given from cover. Alarm calls are abrupt and repeated, while contact notes are softer and more nasal.
