The uniform crake is a species of bird in the subfamily Rallinae of the rail, crake, and coot family Rallidae. It is found in Mexico, most of Central America, and in nine South American countries.
Region
Neotropics
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern Mexico through most of Central America and widely in northern and western South America. It inhabits dense, humid lowland and foothill forests, swamp forests, riverine thickets, mangrove edges, and overgrown wet clearings. The species favors tangled vegetation near slow streams, oxbow lakes, and marshy forest floors. It can persist in secondary growth if dense cover and moist ground are available.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A highly secretive rail, the uniform crake is heard far more often than it is seen, moving quietly through dense, wet understory. Its name comes from its plain, largely unmarked brown plumage. It typically flushes only for a short, low flight when approached. Vocal activity peaks at dawn and dusk, when its deep, resonant hoots carry through forested wetlands.
Temperament
secretive and skulking
Flight Pattern
reluctant flier with short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs within dense cover. Builds a concealed nest low in vegetation over or near water. Likely monogamous, with both adults participating in incubation and chick care. Chicks are precocial and follow adults through thick understory soon after hatching.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Delivers deep, booming hoots and hollow notes that carry well through forested wetlands. Calls are often given in series or duets at dawn and dusk, making the bird easier to detect by ear than by sight.
