Grey-breasted Crake

The grey-breasted crake, scientifically known as Laterallus exilis, is a diminutive bird belonging to the Rallidae family, which includes rails, gallinules, and coots. This species exhibits a pale gray head and breast, a white throat, and a chestnut nape. The upperparts are olive brown, while the flanks are adorned with a striking pattern of black and white bars.

Identification Tips

Adults of this species can be identified by their size, measuring between 14 to 15.5 cm in length, and their distinctive coloration. Both males and females are similar in appearance, with males weighing between 26.5 to 39 grams and females slightly heavier at 29 to 43 grams.

Habitat

The grey-breasted crake is found in a variety of wetland habitats, often with shallow standing water. These include marsh edges, riverbanks, lake peripheries, wet meadows, and even man-made environments such as rice fields. It is also known to inhabit drier areas like pastures and airfields.

Distribution

This bird has a broad distribution across the Americas, with populations ranging from Belize and eastern Guatemala through to Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, western Venezuela, central Venezuela, the Guianas, Brazil, Amazonian regions, Ecuador, Bolivia, Paraguay, northeastern Argentina, northwestern Ecuador, coastal southeastern Brazil, and Trinidad.

Behaviour

The grey-breasted crake is generally considered sedentary, although some local movements have been suggested. Its secretive nature often keeps it hidden from view.

Song & Calls

The vocal repertoire of the grey-breasted crake includes a series of 'tink' or 'keek' notes, a descending musical rattle, and a quiet, sharp 'check'.

Breeding

Breeding seasons for the grey-breasted crake are not well defined and seem to vary by region. The species constructs a spherical nest from grass and weed stems, featuring a side entrance. Clutches typically consist of three eggs.

Diet and Feeding

While the foraging behavior of the grey-breasted crake has not been extensively documented, its diet is known to comprise insects from various orders, spiders, worms, and seeds.

Conservation status

The IUCN has classified the grey-breasted crake as Least Concern due to its extensive range and a sizable estimated population of at least 50,000 mature individuals. Despite a suspected population decline, no immediate threats have been identified. The species is considered common in the Amazon but is less frequently encountered and deemed uncommon in Central America.