Water rail / Wasserralle (Rallus aquaticus)

Wasserralle im schilf am pfaeffikersee. 2021-02-15 08.33.30 Pfäffikersee
Classification: Genus Rallus; Family Rails (Rallidae)
In reeds at a lake.
Appearance and identification: The upper parts from the forehead to tail are olive-brown with black streaks, especially on the shoulders. The sides of the head and the underparts down to the upper belly are dark slate-blue, except for a blackish area between bill and eye, and brownish sides to the upper breast. The flanks are barred black and white, and the undertail is white with some darker streaks. The long bill and the iris are red, and the legs are flesh-brown. [Link]
Vocalization: Varied but distinct. [Link]
Song: Most heard is the territorial song consisting of short, nasal, sharp grunts "tuck- tuck-tuck", ending with a drawn-out trill rising and falling in pitch "kiiiieeerrrr". [Link]
Calls: Another diagnostic call is heard from excited birds; a longer pig-like shrilling squeal, with waning repetitions. A bit like someone squeezing a rubber toy. Also short and sharp calls "kvii". [Link]
Physical details: length=23-28 cm, wingspan=38-45 cm, weight=80-180 g
Habitats: Wetland

First documented observation : 2021-02-15 in Fehraltorf.