Water Rail

Rallus aquaticus

(R. a. aquaticus)

Armenian Name:	Ջրահովվիկ

See Plate 22 for Water Rail and other similar species

Resident Status:	Year-round resident
Abundance:	Uncommon
Length:	23-28 cm, Wing Span:38-45 cm
Distribution Map:	Map 98.
Description:	Long slightly-decurved reddish bill and whitish undertail coverts.
Adult:	Dark brown above, dark gray-blue below, black and white bars on flanks.
Juvenile:	Brown face, pale brown below barred with darker brown, duller bill.
Similar Species:	Differs from other crakes by larger size and long bill.
Behavior:	Secretive and rarely seen. Often emits pig-like squeals and grunts.
Habitat:	Dense reeds, river banks, ponds.
Food:	Invertebrates, plants.
Nest:	Platform of reeds in marsh.
Eggs:	36 mm, 6-11, off-white, red-brown spots.