Water Rail are a shy bird related to the Moorhen and Coot, they more often heard rather than seen and usually picked out by their “stuck pig” squeals in the reeds. They are usually found in reeds on marshy, boggy ground and by lakes and streams, and views are usually gained as they move rapidly between reed beds. Usually some persistence is required to see these elusive birds, as they move at the slightest sound or movement and all you will see is their bobbing white rear end disappearing into the reeds.

When good views are obtained Water Rails can be identified by their long red bill, and grey front, and are really unlike any other bird and so unlikely to be confused with anything else – except possibly the much rarer Spotted Crake.

Winter is by far the best time to see them across the Erewash Valley, and they can usually be found in suitable habitat around Attenbrough given patience. Erewash Meadows has been productive in the past, particularly around the Stoney Lane bird feeders where previous years had four or more birds, however more recently numbers have dwindled, though one or two remain over winter. Tathame Pond on the Erewash Canal has also had regular sightings in the past, as has an area locally known as Cotmanhay Meadows, which is under the railway underpass toward “Chat Corner” first stile on the left. I often hear them calling at night  (courtesy of Dave J).

The two photos here were taken at Budby Pumping Station in North Notts but the video below was filmed in Jan 2010 during a particularly cold spell when two Water Rails were feeding under the feeders at Stoney Lane.