The slaty-legged crake or banded crake is a waterbird in the rail and crake family, Rallidae.
Region
South and Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs from the Indian Subcontinent through mainland Southeast Asia to parts of the Greater Sundas. Prefers dense understory near water in lowland forests, forest edges, overgrown swamps, and reedbeds. It also uses secondary growth, bamboo thickets, and wet plantations or rice paddies. Birds are often cryptic and appear after heavy rains, sometimes wandering into parks or gardens with thick cover. Seasonal movements occur within the region, with some populations shifting southward or downslope outside the breeding season.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The slaty-legged crake, also called the banded crake, is a shy rail that keeps to dense cover and is often detected by voice at dusk or after rain. It frequently walks rather than flies, slipping through tangles with surprising speed. Breeding is tied to wet seasons in much of its range, with nests placed low in thick vegetation near water. Its slate-colored legs and boldly barred underparts help separate it from similar red-legged or ruddy crakes.
Temperament
secretive and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low flushing flight
Social Behavior
Mostly solitary or in pairs, keeping to dense cover and paths through vegetation. Nests are placed low in thick grass or shrubs near water, with both parents involved in care. Breeding often coincides with rainy periods when food is abundant.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Gives a series of sharp, repeated notes and grating, ticking calls, often delivered at dusk or night. Vocalizations can accelerate into a rattling sequence that carries through dense vegetation.
