Rallina tricolor
The Red-necked Crake (Rallina tricolor) is a strikingly colored, secretive member of the rail family (Rallidae), known for its vibrant plumage amidst a reclusive forest existence. Measuring approximately 20-25 cm (8-10 inches) in length and weighing 150-250 grams, adults display a rich chestnut or rufous coloration covering the head, neck, and breast, contrasting sharply with an olive-brown back and wings. Its lower flanks and belly are distinctly barred with black and white, while a greenish...
Dense tropical and subtropical rainforests, secondary growth, and occasionally mangrove fringes, primarily in lowlands up to lower montane elevations.
Insects (beetles, ants, larvae), small crustaceans, and worms, supplemented with seeds and small fruits; primarily forages by probing and gleaning on the forest floor.
Primarily crepuscular and nocturnal, the Red-necked Crake is an exceptionally secretive bird, often heard but rarely seen as it skulks through dense undergrowth. It forages by probing leaf litter and damp soil with its bill, gleaning invertebrates. During the breeding season, pairs are monogamous...
The Red-necked Crake exhibits a wide distribution across Southeast Asia, Wallacea, New Guinea, and northern Australia. Its breeding range encompasses the Philippines (primarily Mindanao and Palawan), Indonesia (including Sulawesi, the Moluccas, and Lesser Sundas), Papua New Guinea, and extends ea...
Least Concern
- Its scientific name 'tricolor' aptly describes its three dominant color groups: the rufous head/breast, olive-brown back, and black-and-white barred flanks. - Despite being a strong flyer, it prefers to escape danger by running or skulking through dense vegetation, making it notoriously difficu...