Mustelirallus albicollis
The Ash-throated Crake (Mustelirallus albicollis) is a notoriously secretive member of the Rail family (Rallidae), measuring 19-23 cm (7.5-9 inches) in length and weighing between 45-70 g (1.6-2.5 oz). Its striking plumage features a distinctive ashy-gray head, throat, and underparts, which provide a stark contrast to its olive-brown upperparts. Bold black and white barring adorns its flanks, while a vibrant reddish-orange bill, tipped with dusky black, and dark legs complete its appearance. ...
Inhabits freshwater marshes, swamps, wet grasslands, and flooded rice fields, preferring areas with dense emergent vegetation. Primarily found in lowlands, though occasionally recorded up to 2000 meters elevation.
Primarily consumes small invertebrates such as insects (beetles, ants), snails, and worms. Also feeds on seeds of various aquatic plants.
Predominantly crepuscular and nocturnal, the Ash-throated Crake spends daylight hours meticulously hidden deep within dense marsh vegetation. It forages by probing soft mud and shallow water for invertebrates and expertly plucking seeds from aquatic plants. Highly territorial, especially during t...
The Ash-throated Crake boasts a broad geographic distribution spanning much of Central and South America. Its range extends from Costa Rica and Panama in Central America, southward through Colombia, Venezuela, the Guyanas, and Brazil. It is also found westward in Ecuador and Peru, and southeastwa...
Least Concern
- Often referred to as a 'voice without a body' due to its extreme elusiveness, making it one of the hardest birds to spot in its range. - Its distinctive reddish-orange bill is a crucial identifying feature, helping to differentiate it from other similar crakes in its habitat. - While rarely obs...