Amaurornis moluccana
The Pale-vented Bush-hen, *Amaurornis moluccana*, is a distinctive member of the rail family (Rallidae) known for its skulking habits and characteristic calls. Measuring approximately 23-28 cm in length and weighing 140-230 grams, adults display dark olive-brown upperparts contrasted by slaty grey head, neck, and underparts, which lighten to white on the lower belly. Its most notable field mark, giving it its common name, is the pale yellowish-buff to rufous-buff undertail coverts, often refe...
This bush-hen primarily inhabits dense vegetation along the edges of freshwater wetlands, swamps, reedbeds, mangroves, and wet grasslands. It is typically found at low elevations, but can occasionally be found up to 1000 meters.
Their diet consists mainly of insects and other small invertebrates such as mollusks and crustaceans, supplemented with seeds and plant matter. They forage by gleaning and probing in ground litter and dense vegetation.
Pale-vented Bush-hens are notoriously shy and secretive, spending most of their time hidden within dense vegetation, often detected only by their distinctive calls. They are largely diurnal but can be more active vocally at dawn and dusk. Foraging primarily occurs on the ground or in low vegetati...
The Pale-vented Bush-hen has a broad distribution across Australasia and parts of Southeast Asia, being largely resident throughout its range. In Australia, it is found along the northern and eastern coasts, from the Kimberley region of Western Australia, across the Northern Territory, and down t...
Least Concern
- The 'pale vent' that gives the bird its name refers to the distinctive yellowish-buff or rufous-buff undertail coverts, which are often the only clear view birders get of this elusive species. - Despite being widespread, the Pale-vented Bush-hen is more often heard than seen, a testament to its...