Rufirallus xenopterus
The Rufous-faced Crake (*Rufirallus xenopterus*) is a critically elusive and rarely observed member of the Rallidae family, a group encompassing rails, crakes, and coots. Measuring approximately 18 cm (7 inches) in length and weighing around 80-90 grams, this small crake is characterized by its striking rufous (reddish-brown) face, throat, chest, and flanks, contrasting sharply with an olive-brown back and a dark cap. Its belly is whitish, and it sports conspicuous pinkish-red legs. Distincti...
This crake primarily inhabits humid grasslands, seasonally wet savannas, and tall "campos" vegetation, especially within the Cerrado biome of South America. It is typically found at elevations ranging from sea level up to approximately 1,100 meters.
Its diet consists mainly of small invertebrates, including insects and spiders, supplemented by some plant material such as seeds. Foraging primarily involves probing soft ground and gleaning from dense vegetation.
The Rufous-faced Crake is renowned for its exceedingly secretive and elusive nature, often remaining hidden deep within dense grass, making direct observation a rare privilege. While likely diurnal, its activity patterns are geared towards avoiding detection, possibly exhibiting crepuscular tende...
The Rufous-faced Crake has a highly disjunct and restricted geographic distribution across central-southern South America, primarily within the Cerrado biome. Its known populations are scattered across several Brazilian states, including Mato Grosso, Goiás, Minas Gerais, and São Paulo, with addit...
Vulnerable
- The Rufous-faced Crake is considered one of South America's most elusive birds, rarely seen despite its vibrant plumage. - It is most often detected by its distinctive, rapid clicking call, which earned it the local name "tictic" in some regions. - Its scientific epithet, *xenopterus*, means "s...