American Purple Gallinule
Porphyrio martinica
The American Purple Gallinule is a rare visitor to Britain, typically seen in wetland areas during the summer months, with most sightings occurring in the southern regions. It is a striking bird that can be spotted in marshy habitats, often near water.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify American Purple Gallinule in the field.
At a glance, the American Purple Gallinule can be identified by its bright purple plumage, yellow legs, and distinctive red bill with a yellow tip. Its overall shape and size, combined with its vibrant colours, make it a notable species.
The American Purple Gallinule is slightly larger than a Moorhen, with a more slender build.
The male American Purple Gallinule has a striking purple plumage, with a green back and wings, and a blue throat patch, with minimal seasonal variation.
The female American Purple Gallinule is similar to the male, with slight dulling of the purple hues, but overall similar plumage patterns.
The American Purple Gallinule has a distinctive, loud, and often-repeated "kek" or "kuh" call, which can be heard in its wetland habitats.
The American Purple Gallinule is a skulking species, often feeding on aquatic plants and small invertebrates in dense vegetation, with a distinctive, slow, and deliberate flight style when disturbed.
The American Purple Gallinule can be confused with the Purple Swamphen, but can be distinguished by its yellow legs and more slender build, as well as its brighter, more vibrant purple plumage.
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