The Tsingy forest rail, also known as the Tsingy wood rail, is a species of bird in the family Sarothruridae that was scientifically described in 2011.
Region
Western Madagascar
Typical Environment
Occurs in dry deciduous forest associated with limestone tsingy outcrops and adjacent forested valleys. Prefers dense understory, tangled roots, and leaf-littered ground where it can move unseen. Often near seasonal streams and sinkholes that concentrate invertebrate prey. The karst topography creates a patchy, insular distribution, with subpopulations separated by unsuitable habitat.
Altitude Range
50–800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Tsingy forest rail (also called Tsingy wood rail) is a secretive ground-dwelling bird of western Madagascar’s limestone karst, described to science in 2011. It inhabits dry deciduous forests growing on razor-sharp tsingy formations, where it forages mostly in leaf litter. Much of what is known comes from vocalizations and brief field encounters. Its restricted range makes it sensitive to habitat loss and disturbance.
Temperament
secretive and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; reluctant to fly
Social Behavior
Typically encountered singly or in pairs, keeping close to dense cover on the ground. Likely territorial during breeding, with nests placed low or on the ground concealed by vegetation. Clutch size and breeding chronology remain poorly documented, as with many elusive rails.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are low, resonant hoots and clucking notes, often given as duets at dawn and dusk. Calls travel well through dense understory and are the best means of detecting the species.
Plumage
Cryptic, earthy-toned plumage suited to the forest floor, with brown upperparts, a greyer head and throat, and warmer rufous tones on the flanks; subtle barring may be present on the underparts.
Diet
Feeds mainly on invertebrates such as insects, spiders, and other arthropods gleaned from leaf litter and soil. Will probe among roots and detritus and occasionally take small snails or other soft-bodied prey. Opportunistically consumes seeds or small fruits when available.
Preferred Environment
Forages on the forest floor within dense understory, along limestone runnels, and near moist pockets in the karst where invertebrates concentrate. Often stays under cover, moving in short dashes between sheltered spots.
