Allen's gallinule facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Allen's gallinule |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Porphyrio
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| Species: |
alleni
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The Allen's gallinule (Porphyrio alleni) is a small waterbird. It belongs to the Rallidae family, which includes other birds like rails and coots. This bird was once known as the lesser gallinule.
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What's in a Name?
The scientific name, Porphyrio alleni, has a special meaning. The word Porphyrio comes from Latin. It means "swamphen," which describes where these birds live. The second part, alleni, honors a British naval officer named William Allen. He lived from 1792 to 1864.
Where Do Allen's Gallinules Live?
These birds make their homes in marshes and lakes. You can find them across Sub-Saharan Africa. This area is south of the Sahara Desert.
What's amazing is that this bird, which doesn't seem to fly very strongly, has traveled far! It's the only bird from purely sub-Saharan Africa that has reached Great Britain. And it has done this not just once, but twice! It has also been seen by chance in several other European countries.
What Does an Allen's Gallinule Look Like?
Allen's gallinules are about the same size as a water rail. They have a short, bright red bill. Their back is greenish, and their upper body is purple. They also have red legs with long toes. Their short tail is white underneath with a dark stripe in the middle.
There are some differences between males and females. Breeding males have a blue plate on their forehead, called a frontal shield. In females, this shield is green. Young Allen's gallinules are sandy brown. Their undertail is a light, yellowish-brown color. Just like all baby rails, their chicks are black and fluffy. When they swim, these birds often nod their heads.
Breeding and Behavior
Allen's gallinules are very private birds during breeding season. They prefer to hide in thick swamps. Because of this, you are more likely to hear them than see them. They make a sharp, nasal "pruk" sound.
These birds are partly migratory. This means they move from one place to another during different seasons. You might find it easier to spot them when they are migrating or spending the winter somewhere. They build their nests in marshes and swamps. Their nests float on the water. A female usually lays between 2 and 5 eggs.
What Do They Eat?
Allen's gallinules use their bills to search for food. They probe in mud or shallow water. They also pick up food they see. Their diet mainly consists of insects and other small animals that live in water.
