Swamphen, Purple

Conservation status:

Resident Breeder

Description:

Almost twice the size of Moorhen; huge red bill and frontal shield; red legs prominent. Plumage mostly uniform bluish with greyish head and neck. Swims with body stooped forward like Moorhen; white undertail-coverts often striking. In flight, shape like huge Moorhen with blue wings and long red legs. Juvenile drabber with greyish underparts, dull red legs and greyish bill. Generally shy and often in cover.