Ridgway's rail

Rallus obsoletus

Ridgway's rail (Rallus obsoletus) is a species of bird found principally along the Pacific coast of North America from the San Francisco Bay Area to southern Baja California, as well as in some region

Family: Rallidae Order: Gruiformes Conservation: Near Threatened
Ridgway's rail

About the Ridgway's rail

Ridgway's rail (Rallus obsoletus) is a species of bird found principally along the Pacific coast of North America from the San Francisco Bay Area to southern Baja California, as well as in some regions of the Gulf of California. A member of the rail family, Rallidae, it is a chicken-sized bird that lives in brackish tidal marshes and rarely flies. Its name commemorates American ornithologist Robert Ridgway. This species is closely related to the clapper rail, and until recently was considered a subspecies. It has a long, downward curving bill and is grayish brown with a pale chestnut breast and conspicuous whitish rump patch. It is most active nocturnally and crepuscularly.

Fun Facts About Ridgway's rail

  • A member of the rail family, Rallidae, it is a chicken-sized bird that lives in brackish tidal marshes and rarely flies.

Conservation Status

The Ridgway's rail is classified as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List. This species faces threats that could impact its population if conservation measures are not maintained.

View on IUCN Red List →

Taxonomy & Classification

OrderGruiformes
FamilyRallidae
GenusRallus
SpeciesRallus obsoletus

🛍️ Ridgway's rail Gifts & Merch

Show your love for ridgway's rails! Find t-shirts, hoodies, stickers, mugs, and more at our store.

Browse Ridgway's rail Merch →

Related Species

Other species in the Rallidae family: