How to identify the Wattled Jacana

To correctly identify the Wattled Jacana (Jacana jacana), 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

17-23 cm (6.7-9.1 in)

Wingspan

30-35 cm (11.8-13.8 in)

Weight

80-140 g (2.8-4.9 oz), females typically larger than males

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Adults have a chestnut body, black head and neck, and a bright yellow-green primary and secondary flight feathers, visible in flight. The rump and tail are chestnut. The underparts are chestnut, often with a blackish wash on the belly.

2. 2

   Beak shape

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

   The bill is yellow, relatively short and pointed, with a red base extending into a prominent, fleshy, bright red frontal shield (wattle) that covers the forehead.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Dark brown.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Dull greenish-grey to yellowish-green, with extremely long, slender toes and claws.

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   The most distinctive features are the bright red frontal shield, the chestnut body, black head and neck, and the extraordinarily long toes and claws. In flight, the bright yellow-green wing patches are conspicuous.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles have a white underparts, a white supercilium (eyebrow stripe), a brown crown and nape, and a brown back. The frontal shield is absent or very small and dull. The wings show the same yellow-green flight feathers as adults.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal plumage changes. The brightness of the frontal shield may vary slightly with breeding condition.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Females are noticeably larger and heavier than males, but plumage is identical. This reversed sexual dimorphism is characteristic of polyandrous species.

Key field marks

• Red Frontal Shield. Look for the prominent, fleshy, bright red wattle covering the forehead and extending onto the bill. This is a key distinguishing feature from the Northern Jacana.
• Plumage Coloration. Observe the chestnut body, black head and neck. In flight, the bright yellow-green primary and secondary flight feathers are unmistakable.
• Long Toes and Claws. Note the exceptionally long, slender toes and claws, which allow it to walk on floating vegetation. This is characteristic of all jacanas.
• Behavior on Water. Watch for its unique 'walking on water' behavior, gracefully stepping across lily pads and other aquatic plants.
• Vocalizations. Listen for its harsh, chattering, or squeaky calls, especially when disturbed.

Explore the Wattled Jacana