Clapper Rail Similar Species Comparison

Main Species

Clapper Rail

  • Clapper Rail Adult
    Adult

    Large, slender chickenlike rail with a long, slightly curved bill and short tail. Note gray cheek patches. Plumage color varies from cinnamon to grayish depending on location.

    © Joe Girgente | Macaulay LibraryVirginia, May 28, 2019
  • Clapper Rail Adult
    Adult

    Large, slender chickenlike rail with a long, slightly curved bill. Note gray cheek patches. Plumage color varies from cinnamon to grayish depending on location. Breeds in coastal marshes and wetlands with emergent vegetation.

    © Ryan Schain | Macaulay LibraryMassachusetts, July 13, 2013
  • Adult

    Typically stays hidden in dense marsh vegetation. Look for them at edges and openings as they pause to look around.

    © Larry Arbanas | Macaulay LibraryTexas
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  • Clapper Rail Immature
    Immature

    Chickenlike rail that often holds its tail up. Cheek patches are gray while the rest of the plumage varies from cinnamon to grayish depending on location.

    © Ryan Schain | Macaulay LibraryMassachusetts, September 09, 2012
  • Clapper Rail Adult
    Adult

    Slender, chickenlike rail that often holds its tail up.

    © Jay McGowan | Macaulay LibraryGuánica, April 21, 2014
  • Clapper Rail Adult
    Adult

    Tall, slender rail with a long, slightly curved bill. Cheeks are gray. Overall color varies from cinnamon to gray depending on location.

    © Greg Cook | Macaulay LibraryTexas, April 22, 2006
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    Species in This Family

    Rails, Gallinules, and Coots(Order: Gruiformes, Family: Rallidae)

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