Common Gallinule look-alikes

Key differences

Common Gallinules have a red frontal shield and bill with a yellow tip, and a prominent white flank stripe. American Coots have a white bill and frontal shield, and lack the white flank stripe. Coots also have lobed toes, while gallinules have long, unwebbed toes.

Key differences

Purple Gallinules are much more brightly colored, with iridescent purple-blue plumage, a pale blue frontal shield, and a red bill with a yellow tip. They also have bright yellow legs and feet. Common Gallinules are dark slate-gray and lack the vibrant coloration.

Key differences

Soras are much smaller than Common Gallinules, with a short, yellow bill and a black face patch (adults). They are streaky brown and gray, lacking the red frontal shield and white flank stripe of the gallinule.