Definition:

(noun) The scientific bird family classification that includes all rails, crakes, coots, moorhens, gallinules and flufftails, a diverse grouping that includes approximately 140-160 species depending on exact species delineations. This family is widespread and found on every continent except Antarctica, with the majority of Rallidae species preferring marshes or wetland habitats with dense vegetation.


Though there is great diversity in this family in terms of size, shape and other characteristics, some traits these birds do share include:

• Short, relatively rounded wings, though they are reluctant fliers and often prefer running or creeping away from a threat rather than taking flight
• Long, agile toes that are often partially webbed or lobed to provide efficient weight distribution for walking through wet habitats without sinking
• Highly camouflaged plumage that befits their shy, secretive behavior, though calls are loud and often carry for good distances, making birding by ear essential for finding rails
• Typically omnivorous diet that includes mollusks, plants and insects

Familiar species in the Rallidae family include the American coot, spotted crake, water rail, sora and common moorhen.

Photo – White-Breasted Waterhen © Lip Kee Yap

Pronunciation:

RAH-lih-deye or RAH-lih-day

Also Known As:

Rails, Crakes