Porzana

Most waterfowl float in open water or wade in the shallows, but Porzana rails are like the mountain climbers of the wetlands. They live in the dense, tangled border between land and water, where thick vegetation keeps most animals out. To survive in this tough environment, Porzana rails have developed impressive agility. Their feet are especially remarkable. Their toes are almost as long as their legs, giving them a wide surface area that helps them walk on even the softest mud without sinking.

The voice of this genus is what really stands out. If you visit a marsh in spring, you might hear a tiny, high-pitched whinny or a falling laugh echoing through the reeds. That is the call of the Sora, and it is often the only clue that these shy birds are nearby. Even though they are about the size of a starling, they are very vocal and territorial. They are known for being high-strung. A sudden loud noise, like a handclap or a car door closing, often sets off a quick response from every Porzana in the marsh, creating a chorus of whinnies that gives away their hiding spots.

One of the most interesting things about Porzana rails is their surprising relationship with flight. In summer, they seem like the least likely birds to fly. If startled, one will flutter awkwardly for a few yards with its legs hanging down, looking ready to crash, before dropping back into the reeds. But this clumsy act is just for show. At night, these birds become expert long-distance fliers. Soras, for example, migrate huge distances, traveling from the northern United States and Canada all the way to Central and South America. They even cross the Gulf of Mexico in a single, nonstop flight, which is amazing for a bird that acts like it can barely fly during the day.