Rascón Bogotano
Bogota Rail
Rallus semiplumbeus
Song
Bogota Rail
Appearance: The Bogotá Rail has a slate-gray coloration on the head, neck, and underparts. The upperparts are darker, typically blackish or dark brown, with white barring. It has a long, slightly curved bill, which is reddish. The legs and feet are bright coral-red. Adults measure about 28–30 cm in length.
Habitat: The Bogotá Rail inhabits high-altitude wetlands and marshes: It is found at altitudes between 2,500 to 4,000 meters. Prefers dense marshy vegetation, often dominated by tussock grasses, reeds, and other aquatic plants. This species is found in the Altiplano Cundiboyacense and adjacent areas in the Eastern Cordillera.
Behavior: The Bogotá Rail exhibits several interesting behavioral traits:
They forage in shallow waters, feeding on a variety of invertebrates, small fish, and plant matter. They are generally elusive and prefer running or walking through dense vegetation to flying. Primarily active during the dawn and dusk, making them crepuscular.
Breeding: They build nests in dense marsh vegetation, often composed of reeds and grasses. They lay 4-6 eggs, usually incubated by both parents. The young are precocial, meaning they are relatively mature and mobile shortly after hatching.
Conservation Status: The Bogotá Rail is currently facing significant threats:and is classified as Endangered due to habitat loss and degradation.
Distribution
Found mainly within the Bogotá Savannah and other high-altitude valleys in the Eastern Andes. Known from wetlands like the ones around Bogotá, including La Conejera, and Laguna de Fúquene.
Taxonomy
The Bogota Rail (Rallus semiplumbeus)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Gruiformes
- Family: Rallidae
- Genus: Rallus
- Species: Rallus semiplumbeus
Vocalization
Grunts and Clucks: Short, repetitive sounds often used in close communication between individuals, especially among family members or during foraging.
Squeals: Higher-pitched, sharp calls that can signify alarm or distress. These are usually emitted when the bird is disturbed or senses a predator.
Kek-kek-kek Call: A distinctive, repetitive "kek-kek-kek" sound that is most commonly associated with the Bogotá Rail. This call is used for territorial displays and to maintain contact between mates. It is loud and piercing, making it effective for communication over the dense, marshy habitats where these birds live.
