Banded Rail

Gallirallus philippensis, the moho pererū, is a native rail of northern and coastal wetlands. It differs from spotless crake through its larger size, chestnut breast-band and strongly barred black-and-white underparts. It has a grey eyebrow, chestnut nape and breast band, and barred belly. Long legs and toes help it move through mud and vegetation.

It occurs mainly in the upper North Island, with important populations in mangroves and saltmarsh. It also persists on some offshore islands and locally in South Island wetlands. It takes crabs, worms, insects, seeds and fallen fruit. Birds usually remain under cover but may cross exposed mud at low tide.

The New Zealand classification is Declining. Ambury Regional Park and Miranda’s saltmarsh offer chances around quiet tidal edges.