The Least Crake (Laterallus exilis) is one of the smallest and most elusive rails in the Americas. Its tiny size and preference for dense, wet grasslands make it notoriously difficult to spot.
Where to spot
Found in scattered populations across Central and South America, from Mexico south to Argentina. Inhabits dense freshwater marshes, wet grasslands, and reedy edges of ponds and rivers.
How to spot
Extremely difficult to observe visually. Focus on listening for its very soft, high-pitched calls from dense, wet thickets. Patience and a keen ear are essential, as it rarely emerges into open view.
When to spot
Year-round resident. Most active at dawn and dusk. Its tiny size makes it challenging to observe at any time.
Where to spot
Found in scattered populations across Central and South America, from Mexico south to Argentina. Inhabits dense freshwater marshes, wet grasslands, and reedy edges of ponds and rivers.
How to spot
Extremely difficult to observe visually. Focus on listening for its very soft, high-pitched calls from dense, wet thickets. Patience and a keen ear are essential, as it rarely emerges into open view.
When to spot
Year-round resident. Most active at dawn and dusk. Its tiny size makes it challenging to observe at any time.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
This crake's call is a series of quiet, almost insect-like 'peep' notes, which are often the only indication of its presence in its dense wetland habitat.
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