How to identify the White-browed Crake

To correctly identify the White-browed Crake (Amaurornis cinerea), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

17-20 cm

Wingspan

28-32 cm

Weight

40-60 g

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Adults have a prominent white supercilium extending from the lores to behind the eye. The crown, nape, and upperparts are olive-brown to greyish-brown. The face, throat, and underparts are pale grey, becoming whitish on the belly and undertail coverts. The flanks are often faintly barred or mottled with darker grey. The wings are dark brown, and the tail is short and dark.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   Short, conical, and relatively stout. The bill is typically greenish-yellow to dull yellow, sometimes with a darker culmen.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Reddish-brown to dark brown.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Dull greenish-yellow to olive-green, with long toes.

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   The most distinctive feature is the bright white supercilium contrasting with the darker crown and grey face. Its small size and preference for dense wetland vegetation are also key identifiers.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles are duller overall, with a less distinct white supercilium, which may be buffy or absent. Their underparts are often buff-tinged or brownish-grey, and the bill is duller.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal plumage changes are observed.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Males and females are monomorphic in plumage, appearing identical. There are no significant size differences.

Key field marks

• White Supercilium. Look for the distinct, bright white stripe above the eye, which is the most reliable field mark.
• Plumage Coloration. Observe the overall greyish underparts and olive-brown upperparts. The lack of strong rufous or extensive barring helps distinguish it from other crakes.
• Bill and Leg Color. Note the greenish-yellow bill and legs. This combination is unique among similar small crakes in its range.
• Behavior. Its secretive nature, preference for dense wetland vegetation, and reluctance to fly are strong behavioral indicators. Listen for its characteristic calls.
• Size. Its small size (similar to a sparrow but more plump) helps narrow down identification among rails.

Explore the White-browed Crake