Habitat
Permanent, montane marshland which is shallowly flooded, at least seasonally, and dominated by dense, short grasses, with scattered clumps of thin-stemmed sedges and rushes. From 950 - 1,800m.
Rarity Status
Currently this species is not classified as a rarity in this country OR information has not been updated.
Population
Estimated population is 250 - 999 (2010) and decreasing.
Status EN
Heavy use and exploitation of marshes, especially for cultivating rice, is the main threat.
For more information see BirdLife International Species Factsheet.
Voice
Call is a rhythmic, repeated 'chong-ga-chonk' and variants.
Slender-billed Flufftail (Sarothrura watersi) [XC66075]
by David Gibbs from Mananara Lodge, Anjozorobe, Madagascar (song)
Slender-billed Flufftail (Sarothrura watersi) [XC622814]
by Ken Behrens from Bemanevika, Bealanana District, Mahajanga Province, Madagascar (song)
Subspecies
Genus sometimes merged into Coturnicops. Forms species pair with White-winged Flufftail (Sarothrura ayresi).
No subspecies.
Similar Species
Male distinguished from Madagascar Flufftail (Sarothrura insularis) by lack of black on upperparts and belly, female by lack of streaking on back and underparts. From all other rails by tiny size and rufous coloration.
References
See References.
BirdLife International Species Factsheet