Sora Rail (Porzana carolina)

Conservation Status: Least Concern (IUCN)

Local Status: Common Yearly Migrant (September - May)                                   HOME

The Sora is one of the most secretive migratory birds to visit Barbados. This small rail prefers wetlands with dense vegetation, favoring well‑vegetated ponds and river edges where it can remain hidden. It arrives on the island, from its breeding grounds in North America, in early September and gone by the end of May.

Description: The Sora is a small, stocky rail measuring about 7–9 inches (20–25 cm). It has a short tail and a distinctive yellow bill. Its face is gray, marked with a bold black “mask” that extends from the base of the bill to the eyes and down the neck. The breast is also gray, while the upperparts are brown with white trimmings and scattered black blotches. Both sexes look alike but Juveniles lack the black mask, giving them a softer, more muted appearance.

Has greenish yellow feet with long toes.

Habitat in Barbados: Sora prefers wetlands with thick emergent vegetation for cover. It can be found in freshwater wetlands, ponds, and river edges. 

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