Order: Gruiformes
Family: Rallidae
The Austral Rail is a small, elusive rail native to southern South America, particularly Patagonia. It has a slender body, grayish plumage with brown streaks, and a short tail. Preferring dense reed beds and marshes, this bird is more often heard than seen, emitting distinctive calls at dawn and dusk. Its secretive habits and declining wetland habitats have made it vulnerable, and conservation efforts are ongoing to protect its remaining populations. The rediscovery of the Austral Rail after decades without confirmed sightings highlights both the challenges and surprises of Patagonian ornithology.
Habitat
Inhabits freshwater marshes, reed beds, and wet meadows in southern Argentina and Chile.
Foraging
Feeds by probing mud and shallow water for insects, small invertebrates, and seeds.