The Madagascar rail is a species of bird in the family Rallidae.
Region
Madagascar
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily in freshwater marshes, reedbeds, and the vegetated margins of lakes and slow rivers. It favors dense emergent vegetation such as reeds and papyrus where it can forage along muddy edges under cover. The species also uses flooded grasslands and rice paddies when suitable cover is present. It is largely absent from arid western habitats and relies on wetlands of the eastern lowlands and central plateau. Seasonal water-level changes can shift local occurrence within wetland complexes.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Madagascar rail is a shy, marsh-dwelling rail found only on Madagascar. It slips through dense reedbeds and is more often heard than seen, giving squeals and kek-like calls at dawn and dusk. Habitat loss and wetland drainage threaten its survival, making intact marshes crucial for the species.
Temperament
secretive and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; reluctant to fly
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs, keeping to thick cover. Pairs are likely monogamous during the breeding season, nesting low in dense reeds near water. The nest is a concealed cup or platform of grasses; chicks are precocial and follow parents soon after hatching.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include harsh squeals, grunts, and a repetitive kek-kek series, often delivered at dawn and dusk. Calls carry through dense marsh vegetation and help pairs maintain contact.
