About the Water Rail
The Water Rail (Rallus aquaticus) is a species of bird in the Rails, Gallinules, and Coots family (Rallidae), within the order Gruiformes. This family contains 156 recognized species worldwide.
Use the eBird species code watrai1 when logging sightings in eBird or other citizen science platforms.
Taxonomy & Classification
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Rails, Gallinules, and Coots (Rallidae) |
| Species | Rallus aquaticus |
| Species Codes | watrai1, WEWR, WARA, WWRA |
Frequently Asked Questions
What family does the Water Rail belong to?
The Water Rail (Rallus aquaticus) belongs to the Rails, Gallinules, and Coots family (Rallidae), in the order Gruiformes.
How can I identify the Water Rail?
The Water Rail is a member of the Rails, Gallinules, and Coots family. Check field guides or upload a photo to our AI Bird Identifier for help.
Where can I report a Water Rail sighting?
You can log sightings of Water Rail on eBird (ebird.org) using species code watrai1, or on iNaturalist.
Related Species in Rails, Gallinules, and Coots 156 species
More Birds in Order Gruiformes
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Quick Stats
Gruiformes
Order
156
Species in Family
8,326
iNat Observations
Spotted a Water Rail?
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