- Porzana carolina
Identification
- Brownish grey *Short, stubby yellow bill *Black mask *Barred flanks *Black on central throat and breast during breeding *Upperside pattered in brown and black **Most feathers fringed white
Distribution
Breeds from southern Alaska through mainland USA; winters to the Caribbean and northern South America.
Taxonomy
No known subspecies
Habitat
Mostly freshwater marshes and rice fields, but in non-breeding season also in more salty habitats including mangrove.
Behaviour
Secretive, but occasionally forages in open, more often than many other rails. Diet: Invertebrate prey during the breeding season; at other times, plant material (especially seeds) comprises much of diet. Voice: Includes a descending whirring sound, also described as a "whinny". Other high-pitched calls, including a "ker-EE" and "cheer".
