African Crake

Sarothrura lugens

The African Crake (Sarothrura lugens) is a small, elusive bird found in sub-Saharan Africa. It is characterized by its olive-brown upperparts, black-and-white barred flanks, and red bill. This species prefers dense, wet grasslands, marshes, and reedbeds near water bodies where it forages for insects, small invertebrates, and seeds. The African Crake is known for its secretive nature and is often heard rather than seen, emitting a variety of calls including a loud, repetitive croaking. Due to habitat loss and degradation, the African Crake faces threats in some parts of its range, leading to a conservation status of Least Concern by the IUCN.

Habitat: Wet grasslands, marshes, reedbeds