Black-tailed Crake

The Black-tailed Crake, known scientifically as Zapornia bicolor, is a bird that graces the montane forests with its presence. It is adorned in a slate-gray plumage, complemented by a chestnut brown back, which provides a subtle yet striking contrast. The eyes of this bird are a vivid red, a feature that is quite arresting to any observer. Supporting its body are slender legs of a pinkish-red hue, adding a delicate touch to its overall appearance.

Habitat

This bird favors the subtropical or tropical moist montane forests, where the climate and vegetation provide an ideal environment for its lifestyle.

Distribution

The Black-tailed Crake has a geographical range that spans across several countries in Asia. It can be found in the lush landscapes of Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Diet and Feeding

An omnivorous creature, the Black-tailed Crake has a diverse palate. Its diet includes a wide array of foods, from the invertebrates and insects it plucks off large animals, to the fish and frogs it catches. It also consumes seeds from aquatic plants, bird eggs, worms, mollusks, grass, and berries. This varied diet allows it to thrive in its forested habitat.

Conservation status

The Black-tailed Crake is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. This status indicates that, for now, the species does not face an immediate threat of extinction in the wild.