Error message
Unable to fetch location details at this time.
Virginia Rail
Rallus limicola
45.801, -122.763
Field Notes
Description:
I was walking along the road at the Ridgefield NWR and heard some rustling in the low-lying brush. I stopped and soon three Virginia Rails exited a small clearing and showed themselves for a few seconds. There were two adults and to my surprise, a youngster.
Habitat:
Rails can be difficult to spot in the open as they prefer staying out of sight in tall grass or brush where there is water close by. I very often hear them before I see them.
Notes:
I was at the right place, at the right time, when the pictured rails decided to cross a 4-foot opening in the brush alongside the road. It was particularly exciting to photograph the chick, which seemed to be even more cautious than the adults.
Species ID Suggestions
Spotted for Missions
Photographed
PublishedSeptember 23, 2011
Comments (1)