The Purple Gallinule is a spectacularly colorful water bird found in freshwater wetlands across the Americas. It is unmistakable with its iridescent purplish-blue body, bright green back, red-and-yellow bill, and prominent yellow legs with long toes. This stunning species is a joy to behold in its marshy habitat.
Where to spot
Widespread across the southeastern US, Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, and South America to northern Argentina. Inhabits freshwater marshes, swamps, and ponds with abundant emergent and floating vegetation.
How to spot
Unmistakable due to its brilliant coloration. Look for its iridescent purple body, green back, red bill with a yellow tip, and striking yellow legs. Watch it stepping gracefully across floating vegetation. Listen for its loud, clucking, and cackling calls.
When to spot
Year-round resident in most of its tropical range; migratory in the southeastern US. Most active during the day.
Where to spot
Widespread across the southeastern US, Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, and South America to northern Argentina. Inhabits freshwater marshes, swamps, and ponds with abundant emergent and floating vegetation.
How to spot
Unmistakable due to its brilliant coloration. Look for its iridescent purple body, green back, red bill with a yellow tip, and striking yellow legs. Watch it stepping gracefully across floating vegetation. Listen for its loud, clucking, and cackling calls.
When to spot
Year-round resident in most of its tropical range; migratory in the southeastern US. Most active during the day.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Its exceptionally long, unwebbed toes allow the Purple Gallinule to walk effortlessly across floating lily pads and other aquatic vegetation, giving it a unique foraging style.
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