The Grey-necked Wood-rail is a large and vocal rail found in a variety of wetland habitats across South America. It is characterized by its slate-grey head and neck, olive-brown back, rufous underparts, and a bright yellow bill with a red base. This common species is a distinctive sound of Neotropical wetlands.
Where to spot
Widespread across South America, from Colombia and Venezuela south to Bolivia, Paraguay, Argentina, and Brazil. Inhabits swamps, marshes, mangroves, wet forests, and even ditches.
How to spot
Look for its large size, grey neck, and rufous underparts, along with the distinctive yellow-and-red bill. It is often seen walking along the edge of dense vegetation. Learn its diverse calls, which include loud cackles, grunts, whistles, and hooting sounds, often given in a chorus.
When to spot
Year-round resident. Most active at dawn and dusk, when it is very vocal and may be seen foraging.
Where to spot
Widespread across South America, from Colombia and Venezuela south to Bolivia, Paraguay, Argentina, and Brazil. Inhabits swamps, marshes, mangroves, wet forests, and even ditches.
How to spot
Look for its large size, grey neck, and rufous underparts, along with the distinctive yellow-and-red bill. It is often seen walking along the edge of dense vegetation. Learn its diverse calls, which include loud cackles, grunts, whistles, and hooting sounds, often given in a chorus.
When to spot
Year-round resident. Most active at dawn and dusk, when it is very vocal and may be seen foraging.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
This highly vocal species is known for its raucous and varied calls, often given by several individuals in chorus, which are a characteristic sound of many Neotropical wetlands.
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