The Virginia Rail is a secretive freshwater marsh bird that is more often heard than seen.
A brief glimpse of a reddish bill and legs, banded black-and-white flanks, and a short, upturned tail is often all that is afforded photographers.
This species probes mudflats and shallow water with its long, slightly decurved bill searching for invertebrates, small fish, and the occasional seed.
A laterally compressed body, flexible vertebrae, and modified feather tips in anterior regions of the head (to prevent feather wear) are adaptations for passing through dense marsh vegetation. Virginia Rails are agile on their feet and most often escape danger by running, but they may also dive and swim, using their wings to propel themselves underwater.

Gallery created on May 23 2010