LIMPKIN
207. Aramus vociferus. 27 in.
These singular birds are the connecting link between the cranes and the
rails. They are rarely seen in flocks, usually living a secluded life in
pairs. They are often known as the “crying bird,” because of the
peculiar wailing cries that they utter, both in daytime and after
nightfall. They are great skulkers, and it is difficult to make them
fly; when they do take wing, it is only to go a few rods before dropping
into the shelter of the reeds again. They can run rapidly, having a
peculiar mincing gait, that is said to have given them the name of
Limpkin.
Notes.—A peculiar wailing “whee-ee-eu.”
Nest.—A loosely constructed platform of sticks, leaves, grass and moss,
located a few feet from the ground in tangled underbrush or vines. The 4
to 7 eggs are buffy white, blotched with brown (2.30 × 1.70); April,
May.
Range.—Breeds and is resident in Southern Florida, and casually Texas.
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