Common name: White-breasted Waterhen (دجاجة الماء بيضاء الصدر)
Scientific name: Amaurornis phoenicurus
Family: Rallidae

Size:
Body length: 32–35 cm
Wingspan: 45–55 cm
Weight: approximately 200–350 g

Identification:
A medium-sized rail with a distinctive white face, throat, and breast contrasting with a dark grey to blackish body. The undertail coverts are rich chestnut-brown, often visible when the bird flicks its tail while walking. It has long yellowish legs, a greenish bill with a yellow base, and a slightly hunched posture typical of rails.

Habitat:
Wetlands and freshwater habitats including marshes, ponds, mangroves, canals, and vegetated edges of lakes and rivers. Often found walking along muddy banks or within dense shoreline vegetation.

Status in the UAE:
Scarce resident and local breeder, mainly associated with wetlands and mangrove areas. Most records come from well-vegetated freshwater habitats and coastal lagoons where suitable cover is available.

Diet:
Omnivorous — feeds on insects, worms, small crustaceans, snails, seeds, and aquatic vegetation, usually foraging along muddy edges or shallow water.

Behavior:
Often secretive but can be surprisingly bold, frequently walking along open banks with a flicking tail. Known for its loud, repetitive cackling calls, especially during early morning and evening.

Conservation status:
Least Concern (IUCN Red List)