Distribution Map
Spotless Crake
Zapornia tabuensis
NativeStatus
UncommonRarity
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Species Description
The Spotless Crake is a small, elusive wetland bird found in Australia and across the Pacific. Known for its secretive behaviour, this bird prefers dense vegetation in freshwater and brackish wetlands. Its shy nature makes it a rewarding sight for patient birdwatchers.
Fun Facts
Spotless Crakes are excellent swimmers despite rarely being observed in water.
1. Bright red eyes with a red orbital ring.
2. Slate-grey head and underparts contrasting with chocolate-brown back.
3. Recognizable calls, including a bubbling trill and sharp "kek" sounds.
Spotless Crakes breed from late winter to summer (August–January), constructing cup-shaped nests in dense wetland vegetation. Both parents incubate 2–5 eggs for about 2–22 days and care for the chicks for several months. The chicks leave the nest within days of hatching but remain dependent on their parents.
Spotless Crakes inhabit wetlands with dense reeds, rushes, or sedges. They are most active at dawn and dusk, often heard before being seen due to their distinctive calls. Look for them in southeastern Australia, Tasmania, and other coastal regions, as well as artificial wetlands like farm dams.
Physical Attributes
Height
19 cm
Size Relative to Other Birds38%
Top Locations
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Top birding locations will be available in a future update.