Rouget's rail is a species of bird in the family Rallidae. It is the only member of the genus Rougetius. It is found in Eritrea and Ethiopia.
Region
Ethiopian Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily in high-elevation wetlands of Ethiopia and Eritrea, especially along marshy streams, boggy valley bottoms, and the edges of small lakes. Prefers dense emergent vegetation such as sedges, reeds, and rushes, often near slow-flowing or shallow standing water. Uses tussocky grass and rank herbage for cover and nesting. It avoids heavily disturbed sites but may persist in lightly grazed marshes if cover remains. Local distribution follows the availability of permanent marshes.
Altitude Range
1200–4100 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Rouget's rail is a shy, highland rail restricted to wetlands of Ethiopia and Eritrea, and it is often heard more than seen. It favors dense sedge and rush beds where it slips through vegetation with ease. Its loud, duetting calls at dawn and dusk are the best way to detect it. Conservation depends on intact high-elevation marshes, which are threatened by drainage, overgrazing, and reed cutting.
Temperament
secretive and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; reluctant flier that prefers to run
Social Behavior
Typically found singly or in pairs, especially in the breeding season. Pairs defend small territories within dense marsh vegetation. Nests are well-concealed platforms or cups built in tussocks close to water. Both parents likely share incubation and care of the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocal, especially at dawn and dusk, giving loud, grating squeals, repeated duets, and harsh kek-kek series. Calls carry over marshes and are the primary means of detecting the species.
