Rails - Group Overview

Rails are secretive wetland birds belonging to the family Rallidae, characterised by laterally compressed bodies, strong legs, and a preference for dense vegetation. They are often more frequently heard than seen, moving quietly through reeds, marshes, and waterside cover.

Members of this group inhabit freshwater wetlands, paddy fields, canals, village ponds, and mangroves, where they forage for insects, small aquatic animals, seeds, and plant matter. Despite their skulking nature, several rail species adapt well to human-modified landscapes.

In the Indian subcontinent, species such as the White-breasted Waterhen are widespread and familiar residents of wetlands, often seen walking along water edges or briefly venturing into open areas before retreating into cover.

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Photographs in this section showcase rails in their natural wetland habitats, highlighting behaviour such as foraging, alert postures, and movement through dense vegetation. All images are documented with accurate species identification and location details wherever available.

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Licensing & Prints

High-resolution photographs of rails are available for editorial licensing, commercial use, and fine-art prints. Explore the complete collection here:
View Rails Collection