The white-breasted waterhen is a waterbird of the rail and crake family, Rallidae, that is widely distributed across South and Southeast Asia. They are dark slaty birds with a clean white face, breast and belly. They are somewhat bolder than most other rails and are often seen stepping slowly with their tail cocked upright in open marshes or even drains near busy roads. They are largely crepuscular in activity and during the breeding season, just after the first rains, make loud and repetitive croaking calls.
Region
South and Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occupies a broad range of lowland wetlands including marshes, reedbeds, rice paddies, ponds, lakesides, mangroves, and slow-moving streams. Frequently uses human-altered habitats such as garden ponds and roadside drains where cover is available. Prefers dense emergent vegetation for nesting and cover but forages at open edges. Tolerates urban and peri-urban environments provided shallow water and vegetation are present. After rains it often expands into temporary wetlands created by flooding.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The white-breasted waterhen is a rail commonly seen in wetlands, paddy fields, and even urban drains across South and Southeast Asia. It often cocks its tail while walking and can appear surprisingly bold near human habitation. Breeding typically follows the first monsoon rains, when pairs become vocal and defend small territories. Chicks are precocial and black, following parents soon after hatching.
Amaurornis phoenicurus
Immatures have only traces of white on the front
Temperament
secretive yet often bold near humans
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; reluctant flier
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs, becoming strongly territorial during the breeding season. Nests are shallow platforms hidden in dense vegetation near water, with both sexes building and incubating. Clutches typically contain several eggs, and both parents tend the precocial chicks. Outside breeding, small loose groups may form in productive feeding areas.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Loud, repetitive croaks and harsh kek-kek notes, especially at dawn and dusk. During rains and breeding, pairs duet with carrying, rasping calls. Alarm calls are sharp and insistent when disturbed.
