In today’s exploration of the avian world, we’ll plunge into the boggy wetlands, and encounter some species of birds we haven’t yet discussed. Gallinules are a colorful and interesting type of bird most often found in swamps, along overgrown lakeshores, and in marshes, although they may be spotted outside that range if you’re looking closely. Members of the family of birds known as Rails, the Gallinules are relatively large, the size of small chickens, and distinctly colored. And, they are definitely not ducks! Let’s take a look.
We’ll be focusing on the two species of Gallinule commonly found in the US: the Purple Gallinule, found primarily in the southeast near the gulf states, and the Common Gallinule, now often referred to as the Common Moorhen, found throughout most of the eastern US and into parts of the southwestern US as well.