Birds
File:African Rail, Rallus caerulescens at Marievale Nature Reserve, Gauteng, South Africa (20627953813).jpg

African Rail

African Rail

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The African Rail (Rallus caerulescens) is a medium-sized, highly secretive rail species found across much of sub-Saharan Africa. It typically inhabits dense wetland vegetation, making it challenging to spot.
Where to spot
Extensive freshwater wetlands, marshes, swamps, and dense reedbeds across sub-Saharan Africa, generally avoiding arid regions.
How to spot
Focus on listening for its unique calls. Be patient and scan the edges of dense wetland vegetation. A quiet approach is essential, as they are very shy and quick to hide.
When to spot
Year-round resident throughout its range. Most vocal and active during dawn and dusk, particularly in the breeding season.
File:African Rail, Rallus caerulescens at Marievale Nature Reserve, Gauteng, South Africa (20627953813).jpg
File:African Rail, Rallus caerulescens at Marievale Nature Reserve, Gauteng, South Africa (21238477022).jpg
File:African Rail, Rallus caerulescens at Marievale Nature Reserve, Gauteng, South Africa (21238649732).jpg
File:African Rail, Rallus caerulescens at Marievale Nature Reserve, Gauteng, South Africa (21257008141).jpg
File:African Rail, Rallus caerulescens at Marievale Nature Reserve, Gauteng, South Africa (21257142271).jpg
File:African Rail, Rallus caerulescens at Marievale Nature Reserve, Gauteng, South Africa - 27771875870.jpg
File:African Rail, Rallus caerulescens at Marievale Nature Reserve (36874833142).jpg
File:African Rail (Rallus caerulescens).jpg
File:African Rail (Rallus caerulescens) (45634712195).jpg
File:Rallus caerulescens caught and killed a frog at Marievale Nature Reserve (8689013107).jpg
File:African Rail, Rallus caerulescens at Marievale Nature Reserve, Gauteng, South Africa (20627953813).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:African Rail, Rallus caerulescens at Marievale Nature Reserve, Gauteng, South Africa (21238477022).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:African Rail, Rallus caerulescens at Marievale Nature Reserve, Gauteng, South Africa (21238649732).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:African Rail, Rallus caerulescens at Marievale Nature Reserve, Gauteng, South Africa (21257008141).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:African Rail, Rallus caerulescens at Marievale Nature Reserve, Gauteng, South Africa (21257142271).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:African Rail, Rallus caerulescens at Marievale Nature Reserve, Gauteng, South Africa - 27771875870.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:African Rail, Rallus caerulescens at Marievale Nature Reserve (36874833142).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:African Rail (Rallus caerulescens).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:African Rail (Rallus caerulescens) (45634712195).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Rallus caerulescens caught and killed a frog at Marievale Nature Reserve (8689013107).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
This rail is notable for its loud and distinctive calls, including a harsh 'krrra' sound, which are often the only indication of its presence in dense reedbeds.
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