The Water Hen belongs to the order Gruiformes, from the family Rallidae, to the genus Gallinula and to the species G. Chloropus. It is an aquatic bird that can be found next to lagoon systems, avoiding salty water. This species can be found in the Porto City's Park, for example.
By now the presence is reduced, although any time of the year is good for observing them. After September until March its presence is very strong in the park which is richest one in fauna and flora in the city of Porto.
The Water Hen presents a conservation status of little concern, according to the Vertebrates Red Book of Portugal. It is a hunting species, however its state of hunting is reduced.
This species is easy to identify, because it presents a combination of contrast. Its red beak and its dark body with light legs. A curiosity about the water hen is that it has some adaptations to this environment, such as having very long fingers. This feature allows it to walk on floating vegetation. Its wings are short and rounded, with a relatively long tail, and many have the ability to swim.
The Water Hen is an omnivorous species, feeding on plant resources - grass and sprouts - or animals - insects, crustaceans and small vertebrates. Its reproduction is made in large and resistant nests, composed of leaves and grass, with a small lateral opening. The eggs take on various colors: yellow, rosy or white.
We can say that they are shy birds, since most of them hide in the vegetation during the day, usually leaving in the afternoon to look for food. Another curiosity is that they are restless birds, by observing the constant movement of their tails, which are lifted vertically.
Written by: Marta Santos
Translated by: Luiza Bankhardt Macedo
Photos by: CERVAS
Comments
Post a Comment