African Swamphen vs King Rail
Porphyrio madagascariensis compared with Rallus elegans
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Attribute | African Swamphen | King Rail |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Porphyrio madagascariensis | Rallus elegans |
| Order | Gruiformes | Gruiformes |
| Family | Rallidae | Rallidae |
| Conservation Status | Not Evaluated | Near Threatened |
| Length | — | — |
| Wingspan | — | 31.7 cm (12.5 in) |
| Weight | 608.0 g (21.45 oz) | 333.5 g (11.76 oz) |
| Diet | -- | -- |
| Clutch Size | 2-6 | 3-15 |
| Population Trend | — | — |
Habitat Comparison
Conservation Status
Not Evaluated
African Swamphen
Near Threatened
King Rail
About These Birds
African Swamphen
African Swamphen (Porphyrio madagascariensis) is a 38–50 cm large gallinule of sub-Saharan Africa and Madagascar. Deep blue-purple with greenish back, massive red bill and frontal shield, and red legs. Inhabits papyrus swamps, lake shores, and dense reed beds. Similar to Purple Swamphen but restricted to Africa.
King Rail
King Rail (Rallus elegans), 43 cm. Largest Nearctic rail; brown above with a rufous breast and barred flanks; long orange-red bill. Inhabits freshwater and brackish marshes in eastern North America. Omnivore: crayfish, frogs and insects. Near Threatened; declining with wetland loss.