Scientific Name: Gallinula chloropus
Malay Name: Tiung-Air Biasa
Chinese Name: 黑水鸡
Range:
A widespread species found globally except in Antarctica and Australasia.
Taxonomy:
Polytypic. Subspecies are: chloropus, meridionalis, pyrrhorrhoa, orientalis, guami
Local Subspecies: orientalis
Size: 30-35 cm
Identification: Adult has overall dark plumage with contrasting white line along flanks and lateral undertail-coverts, yellow-tip red bill, distinctive red frontal shield and greenish-yellow legs/feet. Male is larger than female. Juvenile has duller overall plumage than adult and lacks any red on bill and frontal shield.
Similar looking species: Eurasian Coot, Grey-headed Swamphen
Habitat: Freshwater wetlands.
Behaviour/Ecology: Usually observed feeding while swimming.
Local Status: Uncommon resident
Conservation Status: Least Concern (IUCN 3.1)
Location: Recent sightings confined to Kranji Marsh, Lorong Halus and West Coast Marsh.
Photos:
External Links:
Conservation Status: IUCN Red List Page
Photos: Oriental Bird Images
Sound Recordings: xeno-canto Link
Wikipedia Entry: Wikipedia Link
Reference:
Craig Robson (2011) A Field Guide to the Birds of South-East Asia
