African Swamphen vs Miller's Rail

Porphyrio madagascariensis compared with Zapornia nigra

Side-by-Side Comparison

Attribute African Swamphen Miller's Rail
Scientific Name Porphyrio madagascariensis Zapornia nigra
Order Gruiformes Gruiformes
Family Rallidae Rallidae
Conservation Status Not Evaluated Extinct
Length
Wingspan
Weight 608.0 g (21.45 oz)
Diet -- --
Clutch Size 2-6 --
Population Trend

Habitat Comparison

Shared Habitats

African Swamphen only

None

Miller's Rail only

None

Conservation Status

Not Evaluated

African Swamphen

Extinct

Miller's 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.

Miller's Rail

Miller's Rail (Zapornia nigra) is an extinct flightless rail formerly endemic to Tahiti and neighboring Society Islands, French Polynesia. Known only from subfossil bones described in the 20th century. Presumed extirpated following Polynesian arrival around 1,000 years ago.

More Birds to Explore

Explore the Nature FYI Family