Birds of Singapore
by the Bird Society of Singapore
Rallina eurizonoides
Family: Rails, Gallinules, and Coots · Status: Very rare migrant · Size: 26–28 cm · Conservation: Least Concern
Breeds across the Indian subcontinent, southern China, Japan, and the Philippines. Northern populations migrate to the Thai-Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, and Java for the non-breeding season.
Resembles Red-legged Crake but lacks red eye ring, is larger and larger-billed, with duller brown back and wings, more rufous-chestnut head, neck and breast, more distinct white throat, and dark slaty-grey legs. Juvenile is much duller than adult, with dark grey upperparts and lighter sooty-grey underparts. Ruddy-breasted Crake has a deeper reddish plumage across face and chest with red legs. Band-bellied Crake has duller brown plumage with darker brown on the back extending to the crown. Compared to other crakes, Slaty-legged Crake lacks any barring on the wings.
Streams and wet areas in forests and gardens on passage.
Many records are of window collisions, reflecting nocturnal migratory behaviour. Often partially nocturnal in habits.