Ridgway's Rail

Plegadis ridgwayi

Ridgway's Rail, also known as the Clapper Rail, is a medium-sized marsh bird found in coastal salt marshes and estuaries of the western United States and Mexico. With a long, slightly curved bill and a cinnamon-buff body, it is well-adapted for foraging in the dense vegetation of its habitat. These birds are primarily active during low tide, foraging for small crustaceans, insects, and fish. They are known for their loud, clapping calls that echo through the marshes. Ridgway's Rails are secretive and elusive, making them challenging to observe in the wild.

Habitat: Coastal salt marshes and estuaries