Aramides calopterus
The Red-winged Wood Rail (Aramides calopterus) is a strikingly colored, medium-sized rail found exclusively in the humid foothills of the Andes. Measuring approximately 33-36 cm (13-14 inches) in length, it is distinguished by its vivid rufous or chestnut head and neck, contrasting with an olive-green back and dark grey underparts. Its most distinctive feature, and the inspiration for its name, are the brilliant red primary and secondary flight feathers, which are conspicuous in flight but us...
This species inhabits dense, humid evergreen forests, particularly favoring swampy areas and thick undergrowth along streams and rivers in lowland and foothill regions. It is typically found at elevations ranging from 200 to 1200 meters above sea level.
Its diet is omnivorous, consisting mainly of invertebrates such as insects and worms, supplemented by small vertebrates like frogs and lizards. It also consumes various plant materials, including seeds and fallen fruits, typically foraging by probing the forest floor.
The Red-winged Wood Rail is an exceptionally shy and secretive bird, often heard but rarely seen, displaying both crepuscular and diurnal activity patterns. It forages primarily on the forest floor, meticulously probing through leaf litter with its stout bill in search of prey. Like many rails, i...
The Red-winged Wood Rail is a resident species with a restricted distribution along the humid eastern foothills of the Andes in northwestern South America. Its primary range extends across eastern Ecuador and northeastern Peru, with isolated records also reported from southern Colombia, specifica...
Least Concern
- The scientific name 'calopterus' directly translates from Greek to 'beautiful wing', a fitting description for its stunning red flight feathers. - Despite its vibrant red wings, this rail is incredibly shy and remains one of the most difficult South American birds to observe, often only detecte...