Birds
Purple Swamphen, Porphyrio porphyrio

Purple Swamphen

Purple Swamphen

75
16 hours ago
Not yet spotted on Fladder
Spotted
The Purple Swamphen is a large, striking rail with iridescent purple-blue plumage, a massive red bill, and long red legs. It is a powerful swimmer and walker, often seen in open water or along vegetated edges.
Where to spot
Widely distributed across tropical and subtropical regions of the Old World, including parts of Southern Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australasia. Inhabits extensive freshwater wetlands, swamps, reedbeds, and rice paddies.
How to spot
Its large size, vivid purple-blue plumage, and prominent red bill and frontal shield make it relatively easy to identify. Look for it foraging conspicuously at the edge of water bodies or walking on floating vegetation. Listen for its loud, raucous calls.
When to spot
Generally resident year-round in its range. Most active during daylight hours, particularly in the morning and late afternoon. Breeding periods can offer opportunities to see adults with chicks.
Purple Swamphen, Porphyrio porphyrio
Porphyrio porphyrio, Purple Swamphen
Purple Swamphen, Porphyrio porphyrio
11604 Purperkoet / Purple Gallinule
Purple Swamphen, Porphyrio porphyrio
Purple Swamphen, Porphyrio porphyrio
Credits: f_snarfel
Porphyrio porphyrio, Purple Swamphen
Credits: f_snarfel
Purple Swamphen, Porphyrio porphyrio
Credits: f_snarfel
11604 Purperkoet / Purple Gallinule
Credits: Vlaskop
Purple Swamphen, Porphyrio porphyrio
Credits: f_snarfel
Purple Swamphens are incredibly agile with their large feet, often using them to grasp and bring food items, including roots and seeds, to their bills or even to hold their chicks.
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Spotted

Recently spotted
700 (Seen in the last 3 months)
Last spotted
16 hours ago

Monthly observations

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