Gallinula comeri
The Gough Moorhen (*Gallinula comeri*) is a charmingly robust, medium-sized rail, endemic to the remote Gough Island and successfully introduced to Tristan da Cunha in the South Atlantic. Adults measure around 25 cm in length and weigh between 200-300 grams, presenting a dark slate-grey plumage that darkens on the head and neck, contrasting with olive-brown wings and back. Distinctive field marks include bright white flank streaks and undertail coverts, a prominent red frontal shield and bill...
Found in marshy areas, bogs, stream banks, and dense tussock grasslands, often near human settlements. It inhabits areas from sea level to higher elevations on its island homes.
Omnivorous, consuming invertebrates (insects, worms, crustaceans), plant material (seeds, berries, leaves, grass), carrion, and notably, the eggs and chicks of ground-nesting seabirds. Forages by pecking and probing.
Gough Moorhens are primarily diurnal, actively foraging throughout the day, and typically roost in dense vegetation or hidden areas near water during the night. Their foraging strategy is opportunistic and varied; they peck at the ground, probe in soft substrates, and glean from vegetation for fo...
The Gough Moorhen is an island endemic, primarily confined to Gough Island, a remote volcanic outpost in the South Atlantic Ocean, part of the Tristan da Cunha archipelago. This original population spans the entire island, utilizing its diverse wetlands, stream valleys, and tussock grasslands fro...
Near Threatened
- The Gough Moorhen is nearly flightless, a classic example of evolutionary adaptation (loss of flight) in isolated island species. - It is a significant opportunistic predator, known to feed on the eggs and chicks of various ground-nesting seabirds on Gough Island. - They are remarkably bold and...