The rufous-necked wood rail is a species of bird in the subfamily Rallinae of the rail, crake, and coot family Rallidae. It is found in Mexico, Central America, seven mainland South American countries, and Trinidad.
Region
Neotropics
Typical Environment
Occurs from coastal Mexico through Central America into northern South America and on Trinidad. It is most frequently found in mangrove forests, tidal creeks, brackish lagoons, and estuaries. The species also uses adjacent coastal thickets, mudflats, and the edges of freshwater marshes, especially in the wet season. It sometimes ventures into rice fields or wet pastures near the coast but remains close to dense cover. Mangrove degradation and coastal development can fragment its habitat.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This rail is closely tied to mangrove ecosystems and is often heard before it is seen, giving loud duetting calls at dawn and dusk. It forages along muddy margins and among mangrove roots, where it nimbly runs rather than flies. Because it depends on healthy coastal wetlands, its presence can indicate intact mangrove habitat.
Temperament
secretive and cautious
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; prefers running through dense cover
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs, sometimes with dependent juveniles. Pairs maintain territories in mangroves and adjacent wetlands and are thought to be largely monogamous. Nests are platform-like structures hidden in mangrove shrubs or low trees above water; both parents incubate and care for the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are loud, resonant, and carry far through mangroves, often given as antiphonal duets. Calls include clattering, clucking, and barking notes that accelerate and rise in intensity at dawn and dusk.
