Russet-naped Wood Rail in Laguna de Muyil

At dawn in the wetlands of Laguna de Muyil, we observed a Russet-naped Wood Rail family moving quietly in the mangroves. The sight made the morning unforgettable. In the soft early light, two adults and two juveniles made their way through the reeds. They occasionally called to each other in short, clipped notes. The scene was calm and unhurried, the birds focused on foraging as the day began. The juveniles, still somewhat fluffy and less vividly marked, stayed close to the adults as they moved along the shoreline.

We were there with Eddy and Aracari Tours, who helped us spot and identify the rails. His familiarity with the area and its bird life made it easier to locate these usually secretive birds. Witnessing the Russet-naped Wood Rail in Laguna de Muyil was thrilling. It was quiet and peaceful, watching this small group of rails in their natural habitat, undisturbed, and going about their routine. Join a tour with Eddy where he can be found on 10000 Bird Tours by clicking the link.