The mangrove rail is a species of bird in subfamily Rallinae of family Rallidae, the rails, gallinules, and coots. It is found in Central and South America.
Region
Central and South America
Typical Environment
Occurs along tropical Atlantic and Pacific coasts from Central America through much of northern and eastern South America. It inhabits mangrove forests, coastal saltmarshes, brackish lagoons, tidal creeks, estuaries, and mudflats. Birds are typically tied to intertidal zones with dense cover and shallow water. They may use adjacent freshwater marshes and scrub when tides are high. Local movements track tidal cycles and seasonal water levels.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The mangrove rail is a secretive rail that slips through dense mangrove roots and saltmarsh vegetation more often than it takes to the air. It is closely related to the clapper and Ridgway’s rails, but is distinguished by its largely tropical distribution in Central and South America. Its long, slightly decurved bill is adapted to probing mud for crabs, snails, and other invertebrates.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and reluctant flier
Social Behavior
Usually seen alone or in pairs, remaining concealed in dense mangroves and marsh grass. Breeding pairs defend territories and build cup nests of marsh vegetation above high-tide lines. Clutches typically contain several pale eggs, and both parents share incubation and chick care. Chicks are precocial and follow adults through cover soon after hatching.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include loud, clattering series of kek or kik notes that accelerate and then slow, carrying far over marshes. Also gives grunts, clucks, and squeals when alarmed or interacting with neighbors.
Plumage
Upperparts brown to olive-brown with darker streaking; face and throat gray; underparts rich rufous to cinnamon with darker barring on flanks and belly. Feathers are dense and sleek, aiding movement through wet vegetation.
Diet
Feeds primarily on small crabs, snails, insects, and other invertebrates taken from mud and shallow water. Will also consume small fish, tadpoles, and occasionally seeds or plant matter. Uses its long bill to probe among mangrove roots and detritus. Forages mostly by walking and gleaning rather than by swimming.
Preferred Environment
Exposed mudflats, the edges of tidal creeks, and among prop roots of mangroves during low tide. Also forages along marsh edges with dense grass or reeds for cover.
